The effects of climate change on the hydrology, salinity, and biota of Kerala’s estuaries

Abstract

This review focuses on the significance of estuaries in Kerala, a state located on the southwest coast of India, and explores the challenges they face due to climate change. Estuaries are crucial ecosystems that support biodiversity, fisheries, tourism, and human well-being. However, their vulnerability to the impacts of climate change threatens their sustainability. We synthesize the existing literature on four major estuaries in Kerala, namely Ashtamudi, Vembanad, Chettuva, and Periyar, examining the effects of climate change on their hydrology, salinity, and biota. These estuaries are influenced by factors such as monsoon rainfall, river discharge, and tidal fluctuations. While they possess abundant natural and cultural resources, they encounter diverse environmental and socio-economic challenges. By analyzing different climate change scenarios, we investigate how these estuaries' physical and chemical characteristics are affected and the resulting implications for ecological processes and functions. Furthermore, we discuss the potential impacts of climate change on the ecosystem services provided by these estuaries and the livelihoods of the communities reliant on them. By identifying knowledge gaps and research needs, we aim to contribute to the effective management and conservation of these estuarine ecosystems in the face of a changing climate. Through this comprehensive review, we provide an overview of the present condition and prospects of the studied estuaries, emphasizing their role in sustaining the socio-ecological systems of Kerala.