---
title: "Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve: Marine Park"
description: "The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is India's first marine biosphere reserve, set up in 1989 off Tamil Nadu, protecting 21 islands, coral reefs and dugongs."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/gulf-of-mannar-biosphere-reserve"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is a 10,500 sq km marine protected area off Tamil Nadu, India, established in 1989 to conserve coral reefs, seagrass, and mangroves.
- When was the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve established, and what is its legal basis?
- How does the biosphere reserve differ from the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park?
- Why is the Gulf of Mannar significant for dugong conservation?
- What are the main threats to the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In 2022, the Tamil Nadu government and India's MoEFCC announced the country's first dugong conservation reserve in Palk Bay, adjoining the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, to protect its endangered dugong population.

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