Khordha, Jan 15: The fourth annual flora and fauna survey in Chilika lagoon on Friday found presence of 156 dolphins in the water body.

Similarly, it recorded presence of over 12.42 lakh birds, including migratory.

The survey was conducted to assess the bio-diversity of the lagoon eco-system, informed Chilika Development Authority (CDA) Chief Executive Sushant Kumar Nanda.

A total of 100 technical personnel were engaged for the enumeration. The survey was conducted by 16 groups comprising of 5-6 members in each group, and about 100 researchers and scientists. Besides, 18 boats were also deployed.

With the help of binoculars on the GPS track, the teams were counting and researching small gloom grass, plants, aquatic animals, exotic birds and dolphins, etc. in Chilika.