The Department of Environmental Studies organized the Semester II Field Study visit to Kavaratti, in Lakshadweep, for the academic year 2025–2026 as part of the Marine Ecosystem field course. The team departed from Kochi on 26 January 2026 aboard MV Lakshadweep and reached Kavaratti on 27 January 2026. During the visit, students conducted field investigations at four sampling locations around the island, where they measured physico-chemical parameters of seawater and sediment observed lagoon characteristics, documented marine biodiversity, and studied coastal processes in-situ. A glass-bottom boat survey provided direct exposure to coral reef ecosystems, reef-associated fish diversity, and lagoon dynamics. The students also visited artificial coral plantation sites, gaining insight into reef restoration initiatives and marine conservation practices. The return journey commenced on 29 January 2026 by the vessel Cheriyapani via Kalpeni, and the team reached Kochi on 30 January 2026. The field programme enabled students to apply theoretical concepts, understand marine ecosystem functioning through experiential learning, identify ecologically fragile reef areas, and develop teamwork and scientific reporting skills as required by the course design.
🎥 Watch the field study highlights on Instagram:
