Guwahati, July 8 -- By Barasha Das

Loktak lake is northeast India's largest freshwater wetland and is the ecological heart of Manipur. The lake spans about 287 square kilometres, about half the size of the capital Imphal, and is already under growing stress from pollution, altered hydrology and catchment degradation. Now, a new study warns that climate change could further reduce the fish habitat that sustains livelihoods and food systems.

The study published in the journal Ecological Indicators finds that rising temperatures and shifting monsoon patterns could reduce habitat suitability for native fish species. Using predictive methods, researchers have mapped out how a changing climate will fundamentally alter the lake's water depth, ...