The Gujarat forest department has arrested four persons for their alleged involvement in illegal wildlife trade of sea fans, corals and other species.
- Sea fan coral (gorgonians) or Indrajal are rare flowering marine organisms and serve as a habitat for a number of marine species and fish.
- Only 212 species of anthozoans exist in the world. The species are facing extinction.
- They are listed as a Schedule I species under the Wild Life (Protection) Act (WPA), 1972.
- In India, they are known to be found in waters off the coasts of Gujarat, Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Schedule I species, which include Bengal tigers and Indian elephants, are endangered and demand protection of the highest order. Hunting or trade in any parts of these listed animals can result in imprisonment for three to seven years, with a minimum fine of Rs 25,000.
