Overview

Andaman Islands have been a thriving centre for marine life. Learn about what marine life you can spot in Andaman and how through this blog.

Table of Contents

Introduction

What Marine Life is Found in the Andaman Islands?

1. Vibrant Fish
2. Sea Turtles
3. Marine Mammals
4. Coral & Reef Life
5. Other Sea Creatures

Why Marine Life Thrives in Andaman Islands

How to See Marine Life of Andaman Islands

Introduction

Andaman Islands is an archipelago located to the southeast of mainland India. The Bay of Bengal to the west and Andaman Sea to the East. Due to the presence of such incredible water bodies, a rich marine biodiversity thrives around the islands. More than 85% of India’s coral reefs are found in the waters near Andaman Islands. They are also home for around 1400+ fish species which includes manta rays, reef sharks, dugongs, turtles, and more.

The fact that so many different types of marine animals have made the Andaman Islands their natural habitat signifies a healthy aquatic environment. Rocky, fringing, and barrier reefs provide a safe and secure breeding ground for marine creatures.

What Marine Life is Found in the Andaman Islands?

The Andaman Islands is a sanctuary of many marine lives, thanks to protected marine zones and marine national parks. Here is a list of aquatic animals found in the Andaman Islands.

1. Vibrant Fish

There is no dearth of colourful fish in the sea. They swim and hide between the coral reefs and feed on planktons. Some of the reef fish in Andaman includes:

• Clown Fish (The “nemo fish” is the most popular and easily recognizable fish)
• Parrot Fish (This fish has beak like mouth just like a parrot to scrap of algae from corals)
• Butterfly Fish (They are recognised by their yellow and black markings and feed on coral polyps, algae and phytoplankton)
• Angel Fish (Angelfish is a triangular-shaped fish with distinct fins supports their graceful swimming)

2. Sea Turtles

Andaman is a crucial site for turtle nesting. The turtle hatching occurs between December and April. Once the turtles are grown, they are released into the sea. The important sites are Diglipur (Kalipur Beach), Rangat (Cuthbert Bay), Amkunj Beach, and Ramnagar Beach.

• Green Sea Turtle – They migrate long distances between feeding grounds and hatching beaches. They are usually found on the beaches of Havelock Island.
• Hawksbill – These turtles are identified by their bird like eyes
• Leatherback – The largest sea turtle which nest at sites like Little Andaman
• Olive Ridley – Found on nesting sites like Ramnagar.

3. Marine Mammals

Andaman Islands are full of playful marine mammals like dolphins and dugongs. They are active most during the morning or in the evening.

• Dolphin – Andaman has several types of Dolphins including Spinner, Bottlenose, Indo-Pacific and Risso’s. Dolphin watching is a really popular activity in the Andaman Islands.
• Dugong (Sea Cow) – Andaman’s state animal, Dugong found in the archipelago in Little Andaman and Ritchie’s archipelago. Their sightings are rare and are sometimes spotted at dive sites near Neil Island.

4. Corals & Reef Life

There are about 300 islands that are bestowed with rich coral reefs. The coral species grows on reefs in sites like Nemo (Dive Site), Elephant and Turtles beaches, Neil Island (Lakshmanpur 1) and Northern Bay Island. These corals include both hard and soft corals. You will also spot sea sponges thriving in reefs.

5. Other Sea Creatures

Apart from fish and corals, Andaman is also home to different sea creatures including squids, starfish, and octopus. Here is more on them:

• Octopus – Common species of octopus found in Andaman are reef octopus, mimic octopus (it can camouflage itself), and blue – ringed octopus (small but highly venomous)
• Squids – They are found in shallow waters and are often included in the island diet. Bigfin Reef Squid is often spotted in the Andaman Islands
• Crabs – Important crab species found in Andamans are Coconut Crab, Andaman Blue Crab, Fiddler Crabs, and Mud Crab.
• Starfish – Andaman has a variety of starfish including Common Comet Star and Common Sea Star. They are found on the ocean floor and the best way to spot them is while diving.
• Sea Cucumber – The Andaman Islands offers a suitable habitat for sea cucumbers and sea urchins to thrive due to sheltered bays. They are called earthworms of the sea.

Why Marine Life Thrives in Andaman Islands

• Andaman Islands have a rich coral reef ecosystem which becomes a breeding ground for many marine creatures. They feed, reproduce, and thrive beautifully without facing any external threat. Their presence also indicates mindful and responsible tourism in Andaman that protects these sea creatures from human intervention.
• The presence of mangroves in Andaman also acts as a nursery for small fish and protects the coastline from erosion.
• In Andaman, a stable climate with water temperatures between 27 to 32 degree celsius also supports growth and conservation of marine animals.
• The waters around Andaman Islands are free from any untreated industrial waste which makes life of marine creatures easier.

How to See Marine Life of Andaman Islands

The easiest way to spot marine life is participating in water activities which includes snorkelling, scuba diving and semi-submarine rides.

1. Snorkelling – Wear snorkelling gear and watch incredible corals, aquatic plants, sea fans, and reef fish in North Bay, Havelock & Neil Islands.
2. Scuba Diving – For those who want to spot dugongs, octopus, squids and star fish, the best way is to go for a scuba dive.
3. Semi-Submarine Ride – An easy and convenient way for those who do not want to get wet should go for a Semi-Submarine Ride. This ride will help you see corals and marine life from glass windows.

If you want to explore Andamans, connect with a local travel planner who knows the ins and outs of Andaman like https://www.andamantourism.org/, known for their curated packages, vibrant Andaman experiences, and affordable prices.