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Save the Whale Shark Campaign held at MU

Mangalore: The Department of Applied Zoology of Mangalore University under the auspices of the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) supported by Oracle conducted an event as part of the "Save the Whale Shark Campaign" to create awareness on the conservation of Whale sharks and other marine fauna, recently.

Mangalore University Vice Chancellor Prof. P. Subrahmanya  Yadapadithaya, in his presidential address emphasized on the public participation in the conservation of flora and fauna, including marine creatures. Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) - Whale shark conservation Project Lead Charan Kumar Paidi said that the whale shark species is under threat because of anthropological activities such as pollution, habitat loss, and ship traffic. There is an urgent need for data on the movement patterns of whale sharks in the Indian Ocean and the implementation of conservation strategies.

Resource person, former dean of the College of Fisheries (Mangalore) Prof.  S. M. Shivaprakash said that, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the roughness of the seas on account of incessant rains fishing ban got extended to more than 100 days in the last two years which helped in reviving fish stocks. He also stressed adapting a 35 mm mesh size to Cod end nets of trawlers to prevent the capture of large-scale juveniles.

  Biosciences Professor Dr.  Prashantha Naik, in his special talk on the title ‘Impact of plastic pollution on the marine ecosystem’ said that plastic items particularly single-use plastic such as carry bags, six-pack rings, water bottles, cigarette butts and other forms of plastic waste which finish up in the ocean present dangers to wildlife and fisheries. “It is our duty to minimize the usage of plastic items to conserve marine fauna,  and also for the sake of the environment and our good health,” he added.

Department of Applied Zoology Chairman Prof. M. S. Mustak, introduced and welcomed the gathering. The objective of the program is to contribute to the upliftment of scientific knowledge and contributing to the scientific community and the general public. On this occasion, a poster presentation competition was organized for students. Students showcased a street play to create awareness of the importance of marine life and conservation.

Suma Kote mastered the ceremony. Research Scholar B.S. Chandan proposed a vote of thanks. Over 300 students, research scholars, faculty members, and others participated in the event.  A big whale shark model was exhibited as a part of the event.