Balasore: Horseshoe crabs, among the oldest creatures on Earth, are getting a renewed chance at survival as scientists intensify conservation efforts along India’s northeastern coastline. While sightings of these ancient animals have declined sharply since the 1990s, with only a few estuaries in Odisha still hosting them, new initiatives are underway to protect and study the species.
Twelve horseshoe crabs were recently tagged at the Khandia Muhan estuary in Balasore, marking the beginning of a large-scale tagging program. Over the next three years, researchers will tag hundreds more to track their movements, monitor population trends, and identify key habitats. Both of India’s native horseshoe crab species—Tachypleus gigas and Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda—are found along the shores of Odisha and West Bengal, where conservationists aim to restore their numbers.
Each tag contains a unique serial number, a contact number, and institutional details, enabling researchers to map the species’ migration patterns and reproductive behaviour. The data collected will help connect fragmented populations along the coast, providing valuable insights for long-term conservation planning.
Despite facing threats such as destructive fishing practices and illegal smuggling, the species is legally protected under Schedule 2 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Authorities are ramping up efforts to curb these activities, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding this vital marine species.
In addition to tagging, researchers are exploring advanced tools like satellite telemetry to gather deeper insights into the crabs’ behaviour and habitat. A proposal for further research will soon be submitted to the central environment ministry to bolster conservation initiatives.
With a focus on scientific monitoring and stronger enforcement, conservationists remain hopeful that these ancient survivors will make a steady recovery, ensuring their continued presence in India’s coastal ecosystems.