Tamil Nadu Protects Smooth-Coated Otter in Cauvery Delta Region

Government of Tamil Nadu has launched a focused conservation programme to protect the smooth-coated otter in the Cauvery Delta. The initiative comes amid growing concern over declining freshwater habitats and increasing human–wildlife conflict in riverine areas.

The programme highlights the state’s efforts to balance biodiversity conservation with the livelihoods of local fishing communities.

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Tamil Nadu Protects Smooth-Coated Otter in Cauvery Delta Region

Ecological Importance of the Smooth-Coated Otter

The smooth-coated otter is the largest otter species in Asia and plays a vital role in maintaining healthy freshwater ecosystems. It is considered a bio-indicator species, meaning its presence reflects the overall health of wetlands and river systems.

Key ecological features:

• Lives in social groups called bevvies
• Hunts cooperatively and regulates fish populations
• Occupies irrigation canals, slow-moving rivers, tributaries, and mangrove edges
• Builds shelters known as holts along riverbanks

By controlling fish populations, otters help maintain ecological balance in the Cauvery Delta.

Rising Human–Otter Conflict in the Cauvery Delta

In fishing villages such as Anaikarai, smooth-coated otters are locally known as meenakutty due to their playful behaviour near boats and fishing nets. However, environmental stress has intensified conflict.

Major reasons for conflict:

• Reduced river flow and declining fish stocks
• Otters getting trapped and injured in fishing nets
• Damage to nets and loss of catch affecting fisherfolk income
• Pollution, pesticide runoff, plastic waste, and upstream dams reducing prey availability

These factors have increased competition between otters and local fishing communities.

State-Backed Conservation Programme

The initiative was announced during a Tamil Nadu Assembly session focused on endangered species protection. It aims to strengthen scientific understanding and conservation planning for the species.

Key details of the programme:

• Study areas: Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, and Cuddalore districts
• Focus on population dynamics, behaviour, and habitat quality
• Species status: Vulnerable
• Legal protection: Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
• Approved funding: ₹20 lakh
• Financial year: 2025–26

Research, Habitat Restoration, and Community Engagement

The project will be led by the forest department’s research wing, with extensive field studies in the delta region.

Research and conservation methods include:

• Direct sightings and camera documentation
• Faecal sample analysis
• Environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling
• Habitat restoration through reed plantation and fish ladders
• Conflict-reduction strategies and awareness programmes

Community participation will play a key role in ensuring the long-term survival of the species.

Exam-Oriented Key Facts

• Smooth-coated otter is Asia’s largest otter species
• It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List
• Protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
• Acts as a bio-indicator of healthy freshwater ecosystems
• Conservation programme launched in the Cauvery Delta of Tamil Nadu
• Funding approved: ₹20 lakh (2025–26)

Question & Answer

Q1. Which Indian state has launched a conservation programme for the smooth-coated otter in the Cauvery Delta?
(a) Kerala
(b) Karnataka
(c) Andhra Pradesh
(d) Tamil Nadu
Answer: Tamil Nadu

Q2. The smooth-coated otter is listed under which schedule of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972?
(a) Schedule II
(b) Schedule III
(c) Schedule I
(d) Schedule IV
Answer: Schedule I

Q3. What is the conservation status of the smooth-coated otter according to the IUCN Red List?
(a) Endangered
(b) Critically Endangered
(c) Vulnerable
(d) Near Threatened
Answer: Vulnerable

Q4. Smooth-coated otters are considered bio-indicators because they indicate the health of which ecosystem?
(a) Desert ecosystems
(b) Marine ecosystems
(c) Forest ecosystems
(d) Freshwater ecosystems
Answer: Freshwater ecosystems

Q5. What is the approved budget for the smooth-coated otter conservation programme in Tamil Nadu?
(a) ₹10 lakh
(b) ₹15 lakh
(c) ₹20 lakh
(d) ₹25 lakh
Answer: ₹20 lakh

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