Fakir Mohan University Marks Horseshoe Crab Day to Raise Awareness on Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation

Balasore, 20/6 (Krushna Kumar Mohanty) Fakir Mohan University observed International Horseshoe Crab Day by organizing a special scientific and awareness programme aimed at raising consciousness about the preservation of biodiversity and the environment. The event was jointly conducted by the Departments of Zoology, Biosciences, and Biotechnology in collaboration with the Centre for Research, Conservation, and Innovation on Horseshoe Crabs (CRCIHSC) and the Odisha Forest Department.

The primary objective of the programme was to create awareness among the public regarding the ecological importance of horseshoe crabs—ancient marine arthropods known as "living fossils." The programme also focused on promoting the value of a supportive ecosystem and relevant biological sciences while encouraging collective efforts toward species conservation.

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Inaugurating the event, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Santosh Kumar Tripathy highlighted that the conservation of horseshoe crabs is not merely an academic pursuit but a shared societal responsibility. He noted that Fakir Mohan University holds a significant role in this domain within Odisha and is currently the only university actively promoting research on these unique species. He further emphasized the need to establish a dedicated research center focused on their study and protection.

Distinguished guests at the event emphasized the importance of research, conservation, and habitat protection of horseshoe crabs. They expressed hope that ongoing and future efforts would yield promising outcomes in preserving the species.

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Eminent guests who graced the event included Mr. Aravind Mishra (Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Division), Mr. H.K. Rath (Director, ITR), Mr. Yadav Sudarshan Gopinath (IFS, Divisional Forest Officer, Rajnagar), Ms. Datini Sethi (Assistant Forest Officer, Balasore), Dr. Subrat Kumar Das (Scientist, Deep Ocean Mission, ILS), and Mr. Subrat Nayak (Vice President, NOSI). In their addresses, they discussed the horseshoe crab’s unique physiology, its vital role in medical science, and the importance of securing its survival along the coastal regions of Odisha.

A documentary film was screened to raise awareness among students, shedding light on the habitat conservation and ongoing research related to horseshoe crabs.

Prof. Bishnu Prasad Dash, Director of CRCIHSC, laid special emphasis on the importance of environmental education and grassroots-level conservation. Prof. Bhaskar Behera, Chairman of the Postgraduate Council, lauded the organizers and the university's dedicated efforts in research and conservation.

Dr. Bharat Bhusan Pattnaik, Deputy Director of CRCIHSC and the programme coordinator, welcomed the guests with an insightful opening speech. Dr. Anil Chatterjee (Scientist, NIO Goa) and Dr. Basudev Tripathy (Scientist, ZSI Pune) joined virtually and shared valuable insights on sustainable conservation practices for horseshoe crabs.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Neeladri Bhushan Kar, Associate Professor, Department of Zoology.