In this inspiring episode of the Think Wildlife Podcast, we’re joined by Sri Chakra Pranav Tamarapalli, marine biologist and founder of the East Coast Conservation Team (ECCT), to dive deep into the untold story of conservation along India’s East Coast—a region often overlooked in biodiversity efforts. From protecting smooth-coated otters in freshwater wetlands to documenting rare intertidal biodiversity, this episode explores the challenges and triumphs of grassroots conservation in Andhra Pradesh.
Conservation Beyond the Mainstream
While India’s Western Ghats and Northeast are recognized as biodiversity hotspots, Pranav shines a light on the unsung ecosystems of Andhra’s wetlands, canals, and coastlines. Hear how ECCT began with otter research in Kondakarla Ava, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the state, and evolved into a dynamic organization working on marine conservation, citizen science, and community engagement.
Otters as Flagship Species for Freshwater Ecosystems
Discover how Pranav’s groundbreaking work uncovered populations of smooth-coated otters—and potentially even small-clawed otters—in Vishakhapatnam and Srikakulam districts. Learn how these apex predators play a crucial role in balancing aquatic ecosystems and how their presence could redefine the conservation map of coastal Andhra.
But the journey isn’t without conflict—hear about the tension between local fishermen and otters, and how awareness campaigns are bridging the gap between livelihoods and conservation.
Marine Biodiversity & Citizen Science: The Tidepool Revolution
Through the Intertidal Biodiversity Project, ECCT has documented over 350 species in coastal tidepools, some of which had never been recorded in mainland India before. Using iNaturalist and engaging more than 2,000 people through guided shore walks, Pranav and his team are building a model of inclusive conservation—fostering marine literacy and inspiring the next generation of ocean stewards.
Stranding Response & Building a Marine Network
From dolphins and turtles to whale sharks, the ECCT team is pioneering stranding response efforts—working with forest departments and researchers to conduct necropsies and uncover causes of marine megafauna mortality. Their vision? A state-wide Marine Conservation Network in Andhra Pradesh to coordinate rapid response, build datasets, and support visiting scientists with real-time local data.
Sharks, Rays & Future Ambitions
Pranav also shares collaborations with institutions like IISc and Satyabhama University on elasmobranch conservation, revealing insights into shark landings and electric ray distribution. ECCT’s long-term goal is clear: to serve as an entry point for researchers, conservationists, and institutions seeking to work in one of India’s least-studied marine landscapes.
Topics Covered:
East Coast biodiversity and conservation gaps
Otters as ecosystem engineers and flagship species
Wetland connectivity across Andhra Pradesh
Tidepool ecology and intertidal species discoveries
Marine megafauna strandings and necropsy response
Conflict mitigation with local communities
Challenges of fundraising, mentorship and fieldwork
Citizen science and iNaturalist projects
Grassroots network-building for marine protection
Support ECCT
Pranav highlights the importance of donations, CSR partnerships, and volunteer support—especially from those fluent in local languages. Want to help? Contribute your skills in social media, fundraising, or fieldwork. Every contribution adds to the ripple of impact.
Whether you’re passionate about wildlife conservation, marine biology, biodiversity management, or ecological research, this conversation is a must-listen. Discover how one young conservationist is redefining what it means to protect the East Coast of India, one otter and one tidepool at a time.
Subscribe, like, and share this episode to amplify underrepresented conservation stories.
30% of revenue from optional Substack subscriptions for this episode will be donated to ECCT’s on-ground conservation projects.
Meet the Host:
Think Wildlife Foundation - https://thinkwildlifefoundation.com/
Instagram - @anishwildlife
Twitter - @AnishWildlife
Meet the Guest:
Sri Chakra Pranav Tamarapalli - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sri-chakra-pranav-tamarapalli-05467a102/?originalSubdomain=in
East Coast Conservation Team - https://www.eccteam.org/
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