Impact of Crab Burrowing Activity on Beach Environment Insights from Kanthi Coastal Track of Bay of Bengal, India

Kanthi coast is a dynamic coastal region characterized by diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, particularly crabs, which play a crucial role in maintaining beach sustainability. Crabs influence sediment movement, enhance soil permeability, and contribute to ecosystem balance through burrowing and feeding activities. However, human activities and infrastructural development have significantly impacted these coastal environments, leading to habitat destruction and increased erosion, thus threatening beach sustainability. Studies highlight the importance of monitoring crab habitat density, sediment characteristics, and coastal changes to understand and mitigate these impacts. Crabs show significant interspecific variation in their burrow morphology due to various biotic and abiotic factors. The characteristics of the sediment, including its organic content and overall composition, along with the extent of vegetation cover, play a crucial role in shaping the morphology of crab burrows. Effective conservation strategies, including tourist flow regulation and habitat restoration, are necessary to maintain the ecological health of Kanthi coast and ensure long-term sustainability.