Current Affair 1:

News:

The National Green Tribunal (NGT), October 25, 2024 directed the Tamil Nadu government to act swiftly in removing the invasive Charru mussel (Mytella strigata) from three locations in the Ennore wetlands — Kattupalli, Puzhuthivakkam, and Athipattu.

Charru Mussels (Mytella strigata)

About

1. The Charru mussel (Mytella strigata) is an example of an invasive species that has become a significant ecological threat.
2. Native to South America, the Charru mussel has spread to other regions, including the coast near Kamarajar Port in Ennore, Tamil Nadu, India.

Threats posed

1. The Charru mussel poses a severe threat to marine ecosystems. It reproduces quickly and forms dense colonies, which can outcompete native species for space and resources.
2. The mussels attach to various surfaces, including rocks, other marine organisms, and even man-made structures like boats and docks.
3. This can lead to the displacement of native species, changes in habitat structure, and a reduction in biodiversity.
4. In the Ennore region, the proliferation of Charru mussels has also had economic and social impacts.
5. The dense colonies of mussels hinder the movement of fishing boats, affecting the livelihoods of local fishermen.

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