Daily Current Affairs : 23-December-2023
Recently, a three-member committee, appointed by the principal Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), conducted a thorough inspection of the Kuruchikuppam drain and beach in Puducherry. Their mission was to uncover the reasons behind the concerning red tide phenomenon that has been observed in the region.
Understanding Red Tide:
Defining the Term:
“Red Tide” refers to harmful algal blooms (HABs), where colonies of algae experience uncontrolled proliferation.
Algae Overdrive:
HABs occur when algae colonies undergo rapid and exponential growth, impacting both marine and freshwater ecosystems.
Chromatic Omen:
The term finds its origins in the discoloration of water, often taking on a red hue due to the excessive growth of algae.
Root Causes of Red Tide:
Runoff Impact:
One of the primary factors contributing to red tide is the runoff of chemicals from land-based sources such as agriculture, factories, and sewage. These pollutants make their way into the ocean, providing a fertile ground for accelerated algae growth, eventually manifesting as red tides.
Environmental Ramifications:
Toxins Galore:
Certain algal species within red tide produce potent toxins that pose a threat to fish, shellfish, mammals, and birds.
Ingestion Risk:
There is a significant risk to human health as the consumption of contaminated seafood containing these toxins can lead to various illnesses.
Important Points:
- Red Tide Definition:
- Harmful algal blooms (HABs) characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of algae colonies.
- Occurs in both marine and freshwater ecosystems.
- Chromatic Omen:
- Term derived from water discoloration, often turning red due to excessive algae growth.
- Investigation Focus:
- NGT committee appointed to inspect Kuruchikuppam drain and beach in Puducherry.
- Root Causes of Red Tide:
- Runoff from land-based sources (agriculture, factories, sewage) introduces chemicals into the ocean.
- Chemical influx accelerates algae growth, leading to red tide manifestation.
- Environmental Ramifications:
- Certain algal species within red tide produce potent toxins harmful to fish, shellfish, mammals, and birds.
- Human health at risk due to the consumption of contaminated seafood containing these toxins.
Why In News
Recently, a three-member committee appointed by the principal Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) inspected the Kuruchikuppam drain and beach to analyze the cause behind the recent phenomenon of red tide in Puducherry, emphasizing the urgency of implementing sustainable measures to prevent future occurrences and safeguard the local marine ecosystem.
MCQs about Decoding Red Tide in Puducherry
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What is the primary characteristic of Red Tide?
A. Controlled algae growth
B. Harmful algal blooms (HABs)
C. Blue water discoloration
D. Freshwater ecosystem impact
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Why is the term “Red Tide” used in the context of algal blooms?
A. Reference to marine pollution
B. Discoloration of water turning red
C. High concentration of fish in affected areas
D. Algae contamination in seafood
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What was the focus of the NGT committee’s investigation?
A. Coastal erosion
B. Air pollution in Puducherry
C. Red Tide in Kuruchikuppam drain and beach
D. Marine biodiversity in the Indian Ocean
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What is a significant environmental ramification of Red Tide ?
A. Increased marine biodiversity
B. Accelerated algae growth
C. Production of potent toxins harmful to various organisms
D. Enhanced water clarity in affected areas
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