Salinity changes and their environmental impacts on artisanal fisheries in Chilika Lagoon

Abstract

Lagoons, which celebrate their intricate ecosystems and rich biodiversity, are particularly sensitive to hydrological variables such as salinity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and temperature. Among these, salinity plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Periodic and seasonal fluctuations of salinity due to the evolved salinity gradient among different sectors of the Chilika lagoon of Odisha, India, i.e., freshwater-conquered Northern Sector (NS), the saline-rich Outer Channel, and other sectors, can significantly affect the lagoon's ecological and biological systems. Yet, there remains a notable gap in quantifiable research linking these salinity dynamics with the livelihoods of artisanal fishers, who are key stakeholders in the lagoon’s socio-ecological fabric. This review critically examines the patterns of salinity change in lagoons and their implications for artisanal fisheries, specifying the impacts on Chilika. It explores shifts in fish species composition, productivity, and spatial distributions, and assesses how these changes influence the livelihoods of artisanal fishers, who are reliant on lagoon resources. Furthermore, the paper highlights the lagoon's spatiotemporal variability in salinity and its broader connections to climate-induced phenomena. Ultimately, this study serves as a foundation for future econometric analyses aimed at understanding the socio-ecological effects of salinity variation on artisanal communities, while advocating for policy frameworks that support adaptive, resilient, and inclusive management of salinity.