Aquatic Ecosystem Conservation - University’s Plan to Prevent Harmful Alterations in the Aquatic Ecosystems
Centurion University of Technology and Management (CUTM) actively has a plan to minimize physical, chemical, and biological alterations of related aquatic ecosystems.
Ramsagar Reservoir – weed management and biological control program since June 2018-19.
They focus on sustainable development and environmental conservation, particularly at Ramsagar Reservoir, Paralakhemundi, Gajapati Dist. (18o 46’ 53” N Lat. and 84o 07’ 09”E Long.). This natural ecosystem faced issues like the infestation of aquatic weeds, including Water Hyacinth, Giant Salvinia, and water cabbage. To combat this, CUTM conducts regular collection of these aquatic weeds and also introduced Grass carp as a biological control to protect the aquatic ecosystem. Additionally, the university addresses invasive alien species of flora and fauna, ensuring that the introduction and spread of such species do not threaten the region’s biological diversity.
Teaching and research on aquatic ecosystem conservation
CUTM also offers relevant courses on water and soil quality management, aquatic pollution, and intensive aquaculture to educate students about maintaining the quality and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. The establishment of the Center for Aquaculture and Fish Processing Technology further supports research and activities related to aquatic ecosystem conservation, including ornamental aquaculture, biofloc aquaculture, and the development of species-specific feeds and health products for improved fish wellbeing. These initiatives align with the university’s plan to minimize physical, chemical, and biological alterations of aquatic ecosystems.
