Microplastics in Ashtamudi lake

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Context:

As per the study by Department of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries, University of Kerala, Ashtamudi Lake, a Ramsar wetland in Kollam district, is significantly polluted with microplastics.

Details of the findings:

Extent of Pollution: The study reveals that Ashtamudi Lake, a Ramsar wetland in Kollam district, is significantly polluted with microplastics. Microplastics were found in various components of the lake ecosystem including fish, shellfish, sediment, and water.
Hazardous Heavy Metals:
- Detailed analysis revealed the presence of plastic polymers and hazardous heavy metals in the microplastics.
- Plastic polymers found in the guts of fishes and shellfish included nylon, polyurethane, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polysiloxane.
- Hazardous heavy metals such as molybdenum, iron, and barium, potentially adsorbed from the surroundings, were detected in the microplastics, posing risks to aquatic organisms and human beings.
Sources of Pollution:
- The study identified untreated municipal solid waste and plastic debris as significant contributors to pollution in Ashtamudi Lake.
- Inadequate management of plastic solid waste in the watershed areas surrounding the lake, as well as discharge of domestic waste from residences and resorts, contribute to the problem.
- Fishing equipment such as nets, cages, and monofilaments are also cited as sources of nylon fibers, contributing to the heightened concentration of microplastics.
Microplastic Composition:
- Microplastics are defined as plastic fragments less than five millimeters in length.
- Fibers constituted the highest percentage (35.6%) of the microplastics found in the collected samples, followed by fragments (33.3%) and films (28%).
- Most particles were in the smaller size range, indicating potential bioavailability to aquatic organisms.

Ashtamudi wetland

●Ashtamudi Lake, in the Kollam District of the Indian state of Kerala.

●It possesses a unique wetland ecosystem and a large palm-shaped water body, second only in size to the Vembanad estuary ecosystem of the state.

●Ashtamudi means 'eight hills or peaks' in the local Malayalam language.

●Area: 61.42 km²

●Inflow source: Kallada River

●Ashtamudi wetland was designated a Ramsar site in 2002 due to its extraordinary importance for hydrological functions, biodiversity, and support for fish.

●This designation underscores the significance of addressing the issue of microplastic pollution in the lake.

Source:

https://epaper.thehindu.com/ccidist-ws/th/th_international/issues/84255/OPS/G42CRARTT.1.png?cropFromPage=true

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Which of the following statements about Astamudi Lake in Kerala is NOT true?

A) Astamudi Lake is the second largest lake in Kerala, covering an area of about 125 square kilometers.

B) The lake is a Ramsar site, recognized for its ecological significance and biodiversity.

C) Astamudi Lake is a brackish water lagoon, formed by the convergence of eight rivers, hence the name "Astamudi" which means "eight confluences".

D) The lake is devoid of any islands within its expanse, unlike many other lakes in Kerala.

a)1 and 2

b) 2 and 3

c) 3 and 4

d) All four

Answer: d

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct:

●Ashtamudi Lake, in the Kollam District of the Indian state of Kerala.

●It possesses a unique wetland ecosystem and a large palm-shaped water body, second only in size to the Vembanad estuary ecosystem of the state.

●Ashtamudi means 'eight hills or peaks' in the local Malayalam language.

●Astamudi Lake is the second largest lake in Kerala after Vembanad Lake. It covers an approximate area of 125 square kilometers.

Statement 2 is correct:

●Astamudi Lake is designated as a Ramsar site, which is a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. Ramsar sites are recognized for their ecological significance, and Astamudi Lake is known for its rich biodiversity, including various species of birds, fish, and other aquatic life.

Statement 3 is correct:

●Astamudi Lake is a brackish water lagoon, meaning it contains a mixture of fresh water from rivers and saltwater from the sea. It is formed by the convergence of eight rivers, hence the name "Astamudi," which translates to "eight confluences" in Malayalam.

Statement 4 is incorrect:

●Astamudi Lake is not devoid of islands within its expanse. In fact, it is known for its numerous small islands and islets scattered throughout its waters, adding to its scenic beauty and ecological diversity. These islands provide habitat for various bird species and serve as nesting grounds for migratory birds.