Geologist Ritesh Arya has unearthed coral reef fossils at 18,000 feet above sea level at Burtse in the Eastern Ladakh Himalayas. The unearthed fossils include structures of coral colonies, and give a glimpse into Burtse area’s geological past which comprised of an ancient underwater world. The findings are indicative of a biodiversity that once existed in the said region.
According to geologist Arya, these findings have the potential to redefine our understanding of the region’s past. Ladakh, famous for its high-altitude desert landscapes, might have been a different geological entity, one that was home to vibrant marine life, coral reefs and beaches.
According to Arya, the geological history of Burtse offers a remarkable parallel to the beaches of Rameshwaram or Andaman Nicobar today. Earlier in August, the Geologist had discovered well-preserved fossils of marine animals at an altitude of 16,000 feet above sea level further in Ladakh, augmenting the idea that Himalayas were born as continental plates thrust out of Tethys Sea about 40 million years ago.
Coral reef, an underwater ecosystem comprising of colonies of corals, held together by a building of calcium carbonate. These reefs are considered extremely important for healthy marine ecology. One of the rarest and exquisite ecosystems on Earth, it is a source of food and shelter for about 25% of all marine species.
The corals also contribute to the fishing industry, protect the beaches and coastlines from erosion, act as ocean’s filter, and provides life-saving medicines.
The discovery will be significant in understanding the history and existence of Ladakh as well as the Himalayas and shed light on their biodiversity.