1. Marine fisheriesMarine fisheries
resource of Indiaresource of India
Sameer G ChebbiSameer G Chebbi
Dept. of ZoologyDept. of Zoology
Industrial Fish and FisheriesIndustrial Fish and Fisheries
Karnatak Science College, DharwadKarnatak Science College, Dharwad

2. With the long coast line along theWith the long coast line along the
mainlandmainland
Itself besides the rich areas surroundingItself besides the rich areas surrounding
the Andaman Nicobar Islands and thethe Andaman Nicobar Islands and the
Laccadive islands.Laccadive islands.
with the fairly wide continental shelf andwith the fairly wide continental shelf and
slope and with the expansive high seasslope and with the expansive high seas
extending beyond, India has rich marineextending beyond, India has rich marine
fishery resources, chiefly constituted byfishery resources, chiefly constituted by
varied species of fishes and crustaceans.varied species of fishes and crustaceans.

3. There are also ample ancillary resourcesThere are also ample ancillary resources
like the utilizable molluscs, corals,like the utilizable molluscs, corals,
sponges, echinoderms and seaweeds.sponges, echinoderms and seaweeds.
The marine fish production of India isThe marine fish production of India is
about 40 per cent of the total of slightlyabout 40 per cent of the total of slightly
over 4 million metric tons, coming from allover 4 million metric tons, coming from all
the countries bordering the Indian Ocean.the countries bordering the Indian Ocean.
Marine Fisheries resources of our country,Marine Fisheries resources of our country,
being dynamic and self renewing inbeing dynamic and self renewing in
nature, are subject to fluctuations due tonature, are subject to fluctuations due to
fishery-dependent and fishery-fishery-dependent and fishery-
independent factors.independent factors.

4. Vital information on the potentialVital information on the potential
resources of the country is an essentialresources of the country is an essential
prerequisite for proper planning ofprerequisite for proper planning of
development strategies with regard to thedevelopment strategies with regard to the
marine fisheries sector.marine fisheries sector.
With the declaration of the ExclusiveWith the declaration of the Exclusive
Economic Zone, a vast area of 2.02 millionEconomic Zone, a vast area of 2.02 million
sq km, having rich marine fisherysq km, having rich marine fishery
resources, is thrown open for rationalresources, is thrown open for rational
exploitation, offering scope for increasingexploitation, offering scope for increasing
production.production.

5.  ResourcesResources
 Coastline8129 kms Coastline8129 kms
 Exclusive Economic Zone2.02 million sq. km Exclusive Economic Zone2.02 million sq. km
 Continental Shelf0.506 million sq. km Continental Shelf0.506 million sq. km
 Rivers and Canals1,97,024 km Rivers and Canals1,97,024 km
 Reservoirs3.15 million ha Reservoirs3.15 million ha
 Ponds and Tanks2.35 million haPonds and Tanks2.35 million ha
 lakes and derelict waters1.3 million ha lakes and derelict waters1.3 million ha
 Brackishwaters1.24 million ha Estuaries0.29Brackishwaters1.24 million ha Estuaries0.29
million hamillion ha

6. Some FactsSome Facts
Present fish Production6.4 mmtPresent fish Production6.4 mmt
 Inland3.4 mmt Inland3.4 mmt
Marine3.0 mmt Marine3.0 mmt
Potential fish production8.4 mmt Potential fish production8.4 mmt
Fish seed production21,000 million fry Fish seed production21,000 million fry
Hatcheries1,070 Hatcheries1,070

7. Indian FisheriesIndian Fisheries
Global position 3rd in FisheriesGlobal position 3rd in Fisheries
 2nd in Aquaculture 2nd in Aquaculture
Contribution of Fisheries to GDPContribution of Fisheries to GDP
(%)1.07 Contribution to Agril. GDP(%)1.07 Contribution to Agril. GDP
(%)5.30 (%)5.30
Per capita fish availability (Kg.)9.0 Per capita fish availability (Kg.)9.0
Annual Export earnings (Rs. InAnnual Export earnings (Rs. In
Crore)7,200 Crore)7,200
Employment in sector (million)14.0Employment in sector (million)14.0

8. There are a total of about 21,585 existingThere are a total of about 21,585 existing
species of fishes, out of which 41.2%species of fishes, out of which 41.2%
inhabit the freshwater and the remaininginhabit the freshwater and the remaining
are marine water.are marine water.
The fisheries sector plays an importantThe fisheries sector plays an important
role in Indian economy contributing aboutrole in Indian economy contributing about
1% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).1% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The marine fish production in the countryThe marine fish production in the country
gradually increased from mere 5.8 lakh t ingradually increased from mere 5.8 lakh t in
1950 to 3.32 million t in 2010, registering1950 to 3.32 million t in 2010, registering
about six fold increase.about six fold increase.

9. Export earnings from marine sectorExport earnings from marine sector
increased from Rs. 3.92 crores in 1961-62increased from Rs. 3.92 crores in 1961-62
to Rs. 12,901.47 crores in 2010-11to Rs. 12,901.47 crores in 2010-11
registering 11.8% growth during 2009-10.registering 11.8% growth during 2009-10.
The gross revenue from the marine fishThe gross revenue from the marine fish
landings during 2009-10 in terms oflandings during 2009-10 in terms of
landing centre price was estimated aslanding centre price was estimated as
Rs.19,753 crores (CMFRI, 2011).Rs.19,753 crores (CMFRI, 2011).
The total fisherfolk population of theThe total fisherfolk population of the
country is 3.52 million having 0.72 millioncountry is 3.52 million having 0.72 million
active fishermen (CMFRI, 2005).active fishermen (CMFRI, 2005).

10.  There are about 2,39,000 fishing crafts engagedThere are about 2,39,000 fishing crafts engaged
in marine capture fisheries, of which 59,000 arein marine capture fisheries, of which 59,000 are
mechanized crafts, 76,000 motorized and themechanized crafts, 76,000 motorized and the
rest non-mechanized.rest non-mechanized.
 In mechanized sector, there are about 29,000In mechanized sector, there are about 29,000
trawlers. Though fishing is concentrated mainlytrawlers. Though fishing is concentrated mainly
in the depth zone up to 100 m, deep seain the depth zone up to 100 m, deep sea
trawlers operate up to 400 m depth zone.trawlers operate up to 400 m depth zone.
 The multi-gear capture fisheries of IndiaThe multi-gear capture fisheries of India
estimated provisionally at 3.07 million during theestimated provisionally at 3.07 million during the
year 2010 showed a decrease of about 1.31 lakhyear 2010 showed a decrease of about 1.31 lakh
tonnes compared to 2009.tonnes compared to 2009.

11. The west coast accounted for 55% of theThe west coast accounted for 55% of the
total landings and east coast 45%.total landings and east coast 45%.
The pelagic finfishes constituted 55%,The pelagic finfishes constituted 55%,
demersal 26%, crustaceans 14% anddemersal 26%, crustaceans 14% and
molluscs 5% of the total landings.molluscs 5% of the total landings.
The mechanized sector contributed 73%,The mechanized sector contributed 73%,
motorized 25% and artisanal 2% of themotorized 25% and artisanal 2% of the
catch.catch.
The west coast accounted for 55% andThe west coast accounted for 55% and
east coast 45% of the total landings.east coast 45% of the total landings.

12.  Oil sardine (Oil sardine (Sardinella longicepsSardinella longiceps) remained as) remained as
the most important single species contributingthe most important single species contributing
13.1% to the total marine fish landings in the13.1% to the total marine fish landings in the
country.country.
 The estimated landings of oil sardine for 2010 isThe estimated landings of oil sardine for 2010 is
4,03,932 tonnes against 4,14,767 tonnes in4,03,932 tonnes against 4,14,767 tonnes in
2009.2009.
 The second important resource in terms ofThe second important resource in terms of
contribution towards total landings is Indiancontribution towards total landings is Indian
mackerel (mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurtaRastrelliger kanagurta) accounting for) accounting for
7.9% of total landings, the estimate for 20107.9% of total landings, the estimate for 2010
being 2,43,154 tonnes compared to 1,85,932being 2,43,154 tonnes compared to 1,85,932
tonnes in 2009.tonnes in 2009.

13.  The estimated landings of other importantThe estimated landings of other important
resources are penaeid prawns 2,17,858 tonnesresources are penaeid prawns 2,17,858 tonnes
(7.1%), croakers 1,66,967 tonnes (5.4%),(7.1%), croakers 1,66,967 tonnes (5.4%),
cephalopods 1,66,886 tonnes (5.4%),cephalopods 1,66,886 tonnes (5.4%),
ribbonfishes 1,50,166 tonnes (4.9%), non-ribbonfishes 1,50,166 tonnes (4.9%), non-
penaeid prawns 1,28,876 tonnes (4.2%),penaeid prawns 1,28,876 tonnes (4.2%),
threadfin breams 1,24,248 tonnes (4.0%), lesserthreadfin breams 1,24,248 tonnes (4.0%), lesser
sardines 1,03,059 tonnes (3.4%) andsardines 1,03,059 tonnes (3.4%) and
Bombayduck 94,942 tonnes (3.1%).Bombayduck 94,942 tonnes (3.1%).
 The other important resources were penaeidThe other important resources were penaeid
prawns (2,17,858 t; 7.1%), croakers (1,66,967 t;prawns (2,17,858 t; 7.1%), croakers (1,66,967 t;
5.4%), cephalopods (1,66,886 t; 5.4%)5.4%), cephalopods (1,66,886 t; 5.4%) etcetc..

14. The estimate of region-wise productionThe estimate of region-wise production
showed that the north-east region,showed that the north-east region,
comprising West Bengal and Orissacomprising West Bengal and Orissa
contributed 18% to the total production.contributed 18% to the total production.
The south-east region consisting ofThe south-east region consisting of
Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu andAndhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and
Puducherry contributed 27%.Puducherry contributed 27%.
On the west coast, the northwest regionOn the west coast, the northwest region
comprising Maharashtra and Gujaratcomprising Maharashtra and Gujarat
recorded 24% of the total landings, andrecorded 24% of the total landings, and
The south-west region comprising Kerala,The south-west region comprising Kerala,
Karnataka and Goa contributed 31%.Karnataka and Goa contributed 31%.

15.  The marine fish landings along the Kerala coastThe marine fish landings along the Kerala coast
were 5,30,078 t during 2010 which was 2.39 %were 5,30,078 t during 2010 which was 2.39 %
more than 2009. Tunas formed 81.3 % (7,883 t)more than 2009. Tunas formed 81.3 % (7,883 t)
of the total catch in Lakshadweep thoughof the total catch in Lakshadweep though
declined by 4.6% in 2009.declined by 4.6% in 2009.
 Karnataka recorded an all time high of 3,32,311 tKarnataka recorded an all time high of 3,32,311 t
marine fish landing during 2010. Increase in themarine fish landing during 2010. Increase in the
landings of molluscs especially cephalopodslandings of molluscs especially cephalopods
(118%) and pelagics (ribbonfish (73.7%),(118%) and pelagics (ribbonfish (73.7%),
carangids (51.1%) and mackerel (41.8%)) ascarangids (51.1%) and mackerel (41.8%)) as
compared to the previous year led to this overallcompared to the previous year led to this overall
increase.increase.
 The marine fish production in Goa showedThe marine fish production in Goa showed
25.3% increase (89,451 t) during 2010.25.3% increase (89,451 t) during 2010.

16. The marine fish landings in MaharashtraThe marine fish landings in Maharashtra
during 2010 was estimated provisionally atduring 2010 was estimated provisionally at
2.25 lakh t, with a decline of 29% over the2.25 lakh t, with a decline of 29% over the
previous year and that in Gujarat at 5.06previous year and that in Gujarat at 5.06
lakh t with a marginal reduction of 0.3%.lakh t with a marginal reduction of 0.3%.
In Tamil Nadu the catch was 5.55 lakhs tIn Tamil Nadu the catch was 5.55 lakhs t
and Puducherry 14,525 t. The total marineand Puducherry 14,525 t. The total marine
fish production of Andhra Pradesh forfish production of Andhra Pradesh for
2010 was 2.53 lakh t with a slight2010 was 2.53 lakh t with a slight
reduction of only 0.5% from that in 2009.reduction of only 0.5% from that in 2009.

17. West Bengal and Orissa contributed 18%West Bengal and Orissa contributed 18%
to the total production of the north eastto the total production of the north east
region.region.
The landing of low value bycatch andThe landing of low value bycatch and
discards from trawl fisheries wasdiscards from trawl fisheries was
monitored at Veraval, Mumbai, Karwar,monitored at Veraval, Mumbai, Karwar,
Mangalore, Calicut, Cochin, Tuticorin,Mangalore, Calicut, Cochin, Tuticorin,
Mandapam, Chennai and Visakhapatnam.Mandapam, Chennai and Visakhapatnam.
An estimated 3.83 lakh t of bycatch valuedAn estimated 3.83 lakh t of bycatch valued
at Rs.192 crores was landed which formedat Rs.192 crores was landed which formed
27.8 % of the total trawl catch, an increase27.8 % of the total trawl catch, an increase
of 24% over the previous year.of 24% over the previous year.

18. ClupeidsClupeids
Clupeids represent an important group ofClupeids represent an important group of
pelagic food fishes comprising oilsardinepelagic food fishes comprising oilsardine
((Sardinella longicepsSardinella longiceps), lesser sardines), lesser sardines
((Sardinella albellaSardinella albella,, Sardinella gibbosaSardinella gibbosa,,
Sardinella fimbriataSardinella fimbriata andand Sardinella sirmSardinella sirm),),
white baits (white baits (StolephorusStolephorus spp.spp.,,
EnchrasicholinaEnchrasicholina spp.) and anchoviesspp.) and anchovies
((ThryssaThryssa spp.,spp., SetipinnaSetipinna spp. andspp. and CoiliaCoilia
spp.).spp.).

19.  Surrounded by sea on three sides of the
mainland, India has vast potentials in terms of
marine living, and nonliving resources.
 For ages India has been exploiting her seas,
particularly by fishing, which has since been the
traditional occupation of the country's coastal
fishermen community Exports of marine
products are not new to this country.
 Exports of pearl to countries such as through the
Gulf to the ancient Roman Empire are well
documented in Indian history.
 There has been a well-established dried- and
cured-fish trade with neighbouring countries
since olden days. However, fishing as an
industry did progress and is enough to contribute
to the national wealth.

20.  The search for cheap protein and the advent ofThe search for cheap protein and the advent of
independence have paved the way for progressiveindependence have paved the way for progressive
onward march of this occupation, resulting in increasedonward march of this occupation, resulting in increased
marine fish landings and, subsequently, in more exportmarine fish landings and, subsequently, in more export
earnings.earnings.
 Land areas being limited, their yielding capacity may notLand areas being limited, their yielding capacity may not
be able to be increased on a par with the growing foodbe able to be increased on a par with the growing food
demands of billion over the globe. Hence all the maritimedemands of billion over the globe. Hence all the maritime
countries pay more and more attention to the vast seascountries pay more and more attention to the vast seas
to meet the demands, and India is no exception.to meet the demands, and India is no exception.
 To make this vision a reality, it is thus evident thatTo make this vision a reality, it is thus evident that
concerted efforts need to be taken by the developmentalconcerted efforts need to be taken by the developmental
agencies to plan and execute crash programmes,agencies to plan and execute crash programmes,
especially on the culture and offshore capture sides,especially on the culture and offshore capture sides,
which only would augment fish production, meeting thewhich only would augment fish production, meeting the
nutritional demand and generating employmentnutritional demand and generating employment
opperiunities, and, finally contributing substantially to theopperiunities, and, finally contributing substantially to the
nation's a economy.nation's a economy.

21.  Clupeids formed more than 20% of marine fishClupeids formed more than 20% of marine fish
landings in India (38%). The decadal averagelandings in India (38%). The decadal average
landings of clupeids increased from 1,73,299 t inlandings of clupeids increased from 1,73,299 t in
1950-60 to 7,39,135 t during 2001-10.1950-60 to 7,39,135 t during 2001-10.
 The maximum landings of clupeids (9,29,404 t)The maximum landings of clupeids (9,29,404 t)
was recorded in 2010 and the average landingswas recorded in 2010 and the average landings
during 2008-10 was 8,77,576 t which is 94.42%during 2008-10 was 8,77,576 t which is 94.42%
of the maximum landings. Hence clupeids canof the maximum landings. Hence clupeids can
be included under the class ‘abundant’ withbe included under the class ‘abundant’ with
respect to its status of exploitation. Percentagerespect to its status of exploitation. Percentage
growth in landings of clupeids was high duringgrowth in landings of clupeids was high during
1961-70 and 2001-10.1961-70 and 2001-10.

22.  Mackerels
 Fishery of mackerels is supported by three
species, Rastrelliger kanagurta, Rastrelliger
brachysoma and Rastrelliger faughni with major
contribution by the Indian mackerel (Rastrelliger
kanagurta).
 During 2008-10, the average annual landings of
Indian mackerel in the country was 2,04,077 t
which accounted for 6.3% of the total landings.
 The decadal average of mackerel landings
increased from 74,405 t during 1950-60 to
1,70,468 t during 1991-2000 and then reduced
to 1,50,063 t during 2001-10.

24. BRACKISHWATER RESOURCESBRACKISHWATER RESOURCES
IN INDIAIN INDIA
Sameer G ChebbiSameer G Chebbi

25. The significance of the country's extensiveThe significance of the country's extensive
brackish water ecological system,brackish water ecological system,
consisting of the various swamps, inlandconsisting of the various swamps, inland
bays, lagoons, lakes, backwaters andbays, lagoons, lakes, backwaters and
estuaries along the entire coastline ofestuaries along the entire coastline of
India.India.
The brackish waters are areas ofThe brackish waters are areas of
confluence of fresh water and sea waterconfluence of fresh water and sea water
and the salinity ranges from 5 to 27 ppt.and the salinity ranges from 5 to 27 ppt.

26. The Brackish water aquaculture is alsoThe Brackish water aquaculture is also
known as Coastal Aqua culture.known as Coastal Aqua culture.
Owing to the high productivity andOwing to the high productivity and
extremely favourable physical andextremely favourable physical and
biological conditions for growth andbiological conditions for growth and
propagation the animals associated withpropagation the animals associated with
these brackish water environments arethese brackish water environments are
rich and varied.rich and varied.

27. In addition to the permanent inhabitants ofIn addition to the permanent inhabitants of
the area many fishes and invertebrates ofthe area many fishes and invertebrates of
marine origin including the commercialmarine origin including the commercial
prawns temporarily utilise this biotic nicheprawns temporarily utilise this biotic niche
for completing their life-cycle.for completing their life-cycle.
Thus the estuaries and backwaters play aThus the estuaries and backwaters play a
dynamic role in influencing the overalldynamic role in influencing the overall
marine fish and shell fish production.marine fish and shell fish production.

28. Brackishwater Aquaculture has beenBrackishwater Aquaculture has been
identified as India’s one of the highidentified as India’s one of the high
potential area for increasing fish and shellpotential area for increasing fish and shell
fish production and also to achievefish production and also to achieve
maximum economic and social benefits.maximum economic and social benefits.
The growth of brackishwater aquacultureThe growth of brackishwater aquaculture
is phenomenal.is phenomenal.
There are about 3.9 million ha of estuariesThere are about 3.9 million ha of estuaries
and 3.5 million ha of brackishwater areasand 3.5 million ha of brackishwater areas
available in the country.available in the country.

29. It is estimated that about 1.2 million haIt is estimated that about 1.2 million ha
coastal area suitable for development ofcoastal area suitable for development of
brackishwater aquaculture is available. Inbrackishwater aquaculture is available. In
addition to this, around 8.5addition to this, around 8.5 million ha saltmillion ha salt
affected areas are available in the country.affected areas are available in the country.
Out of this, about 2.6 million ha area whichOut of this, about 2.6 million ha area which
are unsuitable or marginally suitable forare unsuitable or marginally suitable for
agriculture can be utilized for,agriculture can be utilized for,
brackishwater aquaculture.brackishwater aquaculture.

30. The coastal mangrove areas is estimatedThe coastal mangrove areas is estimated
around 2.5 million ha. Out of 1.2 million haaround 2.5 million ha. Out of 1.2 million ha
potential area available for brackishwaterpotential area available for brackishwater
farming, around 1, 94,010 ha were underfarming, around 1, 94,010 ha were under
culture.culture.
 These brackishwater are highlyThese brackishwater are highly
productive areas, but most of them areproductive areas, but most of them are
unused.unused.

31. Culture fisheries resources ofCulture fisheries resources of
brackishwater sector in India surpass inbrackishwater sector in India surpass in
magnitude those pertaining to freshwatermagnitude those pertaining to freshwater
ponds. However, in comparison toponds. However, in comparison to
freshwater sector, production infreshwater sector, production in
brackishwater fish ponds is comparativelybrackishwater fish ponds is comparatively
low.low.
Prawns have been cultured traditionally inPrawns have been cultured traditionally in
different types of farms in India.different types of farms in India.

32. These are Pokkali fields, perennial fieldsThese are Pokkali fields, perennial fields
of Kerala, Bheris of Sunderbans, salt panof Kerala, Bheris of Sunderbans, salt pan
farms and coconut grove farms.farms and coconut grove farms.
Most of the brackish water system in theMost of the brackish water system in the
country are sources of fish and prawncountry are sources of fish and prawn
seed, as they form nursery areas for theseed, as they form nursery areas for the
commercially important species whichcommercially important species which
breed in the sea.breed in the sea.

33. The brackish water fish such as Mullet andThe brackish water fish such as Mullet and
other fishes were cultured off the Italianother fishes were cultured off the Italian
coast by Romans long ago.coast by Romans long ago.
Later culture of Mullets, Lates, Milk fishLater culture of Mullets, Lates, Milk fish
and Shrimp were tried in the states ofand Shrimp were tried in the states of
Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
Estuaries, Back waters, Creeks andEstuaries, Back waters, Creeks and
Lagoons are the main non-stagnantLagoons are the main non-stagnant
Brackish waters.Brackish waters.

34. In these waters fishes and the seed of MilkIn these waters fishes and the seed of Milk
fish (Chanos), Mullet (Mugil cephalus).fish (Chanos), Mullet (Mugil cephalus).
Elops, Megalops Polynemus, Lates.Elops, Megalops Polynemus, Lates.
Etroplus, Tilapla, Shrimp are available.Etroplus, Tilapla, Shrimp are available.
These flowing waters are useful forThese flowing waters are useful for
collection of fish seed or prawn larvae forcollection of fish seed or prawn larvae for
growing in brackish water fish ponds.growing in brackish water fish ponds.

35. Directly the fish cultures in these watersDirectly the fish cultures in these waters
are not be possible, but under favourableare not be possible, but under favourable
conditions the culture in a cages or pensconditions the culture in a cages or pens
may be tried.may be tried.
Now the collection of Prawn larvae andNow the collection of Prawn larvae and
selling is going on in these waters.selling is going on in these waters.
Cultural practices can be taken up in theseCultural practices can be taken up in these
ponds with controlled conditions of waterponds with controlled conditions of water
management and culture methods.management and culture methods.

36. The mullet, milkfish and to some extentThe mullet, milkfish and to some extent
prawns are only non-predators. The restprawns are only non-predators. The rest
are predators and also cannibalistic fishes.are predators and also cannibalistic fishes.
Hence the production got effected.Hence the production got effected.
 At certain places the Milk fish and MulletAt certain places the Milk fish and Mullet
fish seed stocking was also taken up.fish seed stocking was also taken up.
 Thus, fish production from brackishwaterThus, fish production from brackishwater
alone would be about equal to the totalalone would be about equal to the total
fish, production of India, which at presentfish, production of India, which at present
ranges between 1.90 and 2.5 millionranges between 1.90 and 2.5 million
tonnes.tonnes.

37.  However in brackishwater fish culture aHowever in brackishwater fish culture a
maximum to about 2.5 t/ha Yr has beenmaximum to about 2.5 t/ha Yr has been
achieved against an average of 450 kg/ha. Theachieved against an average of 450 kg/ha. The
brackishwater of immediate concern for fishbrackishwater of immediate concern for fish
cultural purposes are estuarine basins,cultural purposes are estuarine basins,
backwaters, tidal creeks, brackishwater lakes,backwaters, tidal creeks, brackishwater lakes,
and, coastal lagoons.and, coastal lagoons.
 Most of the brackishwater systems in ourMost of the brackishwater systems in our
country are characterized by a strong monsooncountry are characterized by a strong monsoon
rainfall regime that follows freshwater dischargerainfall regime that follows freshwater discharge
during a limited period of the year although, theduring a limited period of the year although, the
intensity of this influence tends to decrease fromintensity of this influence tends to decrease from
north to south.north to south.

38. Brackishwater Resources of IndiaBrackishwater Resources of India
a. Estuariesa. Estuaries
b. Coast Line b. Coast Line
c. Backwater c. Backwater
d. Mangroves d. Mangroves
e. Lagoons e. Lagoons

39. StatesStates Total BW area (ha)Total BW area (ha) Area under culture (ha)Area under culture (ha) Production live weight (t)Production live weight (t)
Andhra PradeshAndhra Pradesh 1,50,0001,50,000 66,20066,200 34,07534,075
GoaGoa 18,50018,500 650650 500500
GujaratGujarat 3,76,0003,76,000 997997 235235
KarnatakaKarnataka 8,0008,000 3,5403,540 2,6402,640
KeralaKerala 65,00065,000 14,59514,595 7,2907,290
MaharashtraMaharashtra 80,00080,000 970970 700700
OrissaOrissa 31,60031,600 11,33211,332 5,0005,000
PondicherryPondicherry 800800 2222 2020
Tamil NaduTamil Nadu 56,00056,000 670670 1,1971,197
West BengalWest Bengal 4,05,0004,05,000 42,52542,525 15,12115,121
TotalTotal 11,90,90011,90,900 1,415011,41501 66,77866,778
State-wise details in brackishwater area availableState-wise details in brackishwater area available under under culture andculture and
production for the yearproduction for the year 20022002
Source : Hand Book on Fisheries Statistics, 2002, Fisheries
Division Department of Agriculture & Cooperation,
Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India.

42. FISH AND ITS SEED RESOURCESFISH AND ITS SEED RESOURCES
Milk fish,Milk fish, Chanos chanosChanos chanos fry is availablefry is available
abundantly on the east coast of India fromabundantly on the east coast of India from
Northern Andhra Pradesh coast toNorthern Andhra Pradesh coast to
Tanjore, Ramnad and Terunelveli inTanjore, Ramnad and Terunelveli in
Tamilnadu.Tamilnadu.
The seed is also obtained abundantly onThe seed is also obtained abundantly on
the west coast in Malabar of Kerala andthe west coast in Malabar of Kerala and
South Kanara in Karnataka.South Kanara in Karnataka.
Pamban in Tamilnadu is the mostPamban in Tamilnadu is the most
important milk fish fry collection centre.important milk fish fry collection centre.

43. The milk fish fry is available during April toThe milk fish fry is available during April to
June in maximum amount andJune in maximum amount and
occasionally during October to Decemberoccasionally during October to December
in few centres.in few centres.
The milk fish fry is found continuously fromThe milk fish fry is found continuously from
February to October, with the peak inFebruary to October, with the peak in
abundance in April and September inabundance in April and September in
Pulicat lake.Pulicat lake.

44. Gray mullet,Gray mullet, Mugil cephalusMugil cephalus fry isfry is
available during January, March to Mayavailable during January, March to May
and December, with peak in March in theand December, with peak in March in the
Mahanadi estuary.Mahanadi estuary.
These are abundant during November andThese are abundant during November and
December on Andhra Pradesh coast. TheDecember on Andhra Pradesh coast. The
fry is available from January to March infry is available from January to March in
the Markanam estuary in Tamilnadu.the Markanam estuary in Tamilnadu.
These are also available during NovemberThese are also available during November
and December and late Januaryand December and late January near thenear the
mouth of Chilka lake, and, during Januarymouth of Chilka lake, and, during January
to June and September in the Pulicat lake.to June and September in the Pulicat lake.

45.  In the Hoogly-Matlah estuary system in West Bengal, theIn the Hoogly-Matlah estuary system in West Bengal, the
fry offry of Mugil parsiaMugil parsia is available from December to Juneis available from December to June
and during January, and June to September on theand during January, and June to September on the
Maharashtra coast.Maharashtra coast.
 The fry is also reported in Andhra Pradesh coast. The fryThe fry is also reported in Andhra Pradesh coast. The fry
ofof Mugil tadeMugil tade is found during June to September, with ais found during June to September, with a
peak in July from Hoogly- Matlah estuary.peak in July from Hoogly- Matlah estuary. MugilMugil
macrolepismacrolepis seed is found at the mouth of the Chilkaseed is found at the mouth of the Chilka
during November to January.during November to January.
 Mugil corsulaMugil corsula seed is collected from Hoogly- Matlah andseed is collected from Hoogly- Matlah and
Mahanadi estuaries during July and August.Mahanadi estuaries during July and August.
 The seed of seabassThe seed of seabass Latus calcariferLatus calcarifer is collected duringis collected during
May to October from Jhankran and Hoogly-MatlahMay to October from Jhankran and Hoogly-Matlah
estuaries in West Bengal. It is available during July andestuaries in West Bengal. It is available during July and
August at the mouth of Chilka. This seed is alsoAugust at the mouth of Chilka. This seed is also
collected in central and southern regions of the eastcollected in central and southern regions of the east
coast.coast.

46. Asian Seabass/ Barramundi - Lates calcarifer
•Scientific name: Lates calcarifer
•Economically important food fish in tropical countries.
•habitat: Euryhaline and catadromous i.e., it grows in fresh/brackish water.
•It is widely distributed in the tropical areas of Indo-Pacific region.
•Adult Seabass is carnivores, but juveniles are omnivores. It is protandrous hermaphrodite.
•Hardy fish and suitable for farming in brackish, fresh and marine waters in ponds, cages and pens.
•PONDS: Stocking density - 10,000/ha Yield -4.0 - 5.0 t/ha
•Cages : Stocking density - 10 - 12 no./m2
Yield - 6 kg / m2

47. Milk fish - Chanos Chanos
•Scientific name: Chanos Chanos
•Herbivores fish, feeds mainly on benthic blue green algae and decayed organic matter.
•Habitat: Found in coastal waters, enters estuaries and rivers.
•Naturally abundant in Coromandal coast and Gulf of Mannar.
•Highly compatiable hardy fish; can be farmed in atcoastal brackishwater and freshwater ecosystems in
ponds and cages.
•Popular food fish, suitable for polyculture and integrated farming
•Monoculture: Stocking density - 5,000 - 6,000 / ha
•Yield - 2.5 - 2.5 t / ha / 6-7 months

48. Grey Mullet - Mugil cephalus
•Scientific name: Mugil cephalus
•Herbivores fish.
•Inhabits seas, estuaries and rivers extending almost into freshwater.
•Distributed world wide in temperate and tropical waters; abundant in north east and south west coasts of
india.
•Suitable for farming in fresh, breakishwater and marine conditions; also polycultured with shrimps as
integrated farming.
•Highly relished in kerala and West bengal.
•Monoculture: Stocking density - 10,000 - 15,000 / ha
•Yield - 2.5 - 3.0 t / ha / 8 months
•Polyculture : Stocking density - 5,000 - 6,000 /ha
•Yield - 1.5 - 2.0 t /ha / 10 months

49. Pearl Spot - Etroplus suratensis
Monoculture: Stocking density-20,000 -30,000 / ha
Yield - 2.0 / ha / 8 - 9 months

50. Tiger shrimp - Penaeus monodon
•Scientific name: Penaeus monodon
•Largest species of shrimp in the world grows upto 32 cm.
•Hapitat: Estuaries, rivers, inshore and brackishwater.
•Naturally abundant in east and south-west coasts of India.
•Extensively cultured in India and other Asian countries.
•Stocking density : upto 1,00,000 / ha
•Yield : 1.0 - 1.5 t/ha/crop

51. Indian White Shrimp - Penaeus indicus
Stocking Density : UPTO 1,00,000 / ha
Yield : 0.75 -1.0 t/ha/crop

52. Banana Shrimp - Penaeus merguiensis
Stocking density : upto 1,00,000 / ha
Yield : 0.5 - 1.0 t/ha/crop

53. White leg Shrimp - Penaeus vannamei
•Scientific name: Litopenaeus vannamei
•Distribution: Native of pacific coast of Mexico and central and south America
•Introduced in Asian and Southeast Asian countries since 2000
•Importation of SPF broodstock permitted in India since 2009 under strict guidelines
•Stocking density permitted : upto 6,00,000 / ha
•Yield : upto 10 t/ ha/ 4month crop

54. Mud Crab - Scylla serrata
•Scientific name: Scylla serrata
•Mud Crabs are largest of the portunid crabs with carapace width of 22 cm weighing
about 2.4 kg.
•Habitat: Estuaries and in burrows of mangrove areas.
•Naturally abundant in brackishwaters of Indian coasts.
•Very active at nigt, can migrate up to 50 km offshore and can swim down to 300 m
depth in water.
•Well relished for its taste, texture and nutritive value hence both the species are
captured and cultured in India.
•Stocking density : 5,000 -30,000 / ha for grow out and1,000 - 4,000/ha for Fattenning.
•Yield : 1.0 - 1.5 t/ha/year in grow-out, 60 - 100 g weight gain / crab / month in
fattenning.

55. Mud Crab - Scylla tranquebarica
•Scientific name: Scylla tranquebarica
•Mud Crabs are largest of the portunid crabs with carapace width of 22 cm weighing
about 2.4 kg.
•Habitat: Estuaries and in burrows of mangrove areas.
•Naturally abundant in brackishwaters of Indian coasts.
•Very active at nigt, can migrate up to 50 km offshore and can swim down to 300 m
depth in water.
•Well relished for its taste, texture and nutritive value hence both the species are
captured and cultured in India.
•Stocking density : 5,000 -30,000 / ha for grow out and 1,000 - 4,000/ha for fattening.
•Yield : 0.6 - 1.5 t/ha/year in grow - out, 85 - 150 weight gain / crab / month in
fattening
Back

56.  PRAWN AND ITS SEED RESOURCESPRAWN AND ITS SEED RESOURCES
 The prawn fishery of the country is supported byThe prawn fishery of the country is supported by
genera likegenera like Penaeus, Metapenaeus,Penaeus, Metapenaeus,
Parapenaeopsis and SolenocraParapenaeopsis and Solenocra. All these. All these
prawns are suitable for culture. The following 8prawns are suitable for culture. The following 8
species are used mostly for prawn culture.species are used mostly for prawn culture.
 These areThese are Penaeus monodon, P. indicus, P.Penaeus monodon, P. indicus, P.
merguiensis, P. semisulcatus, Metapenaeusmerguiensis, P. semisulcatus, Metapenaeus
dobsoni, M.monoceros, M. affinisdobsoni, M.monoceros, M. affinis andand M.M.
brevicornisbrevicornis. This prawn seed is available in. This prawn seed is available in
plenty on both east and west coasts.plenty on both east and west coasts.

57.  The seed comes along with high tides and isThe seed comes along with high tides and is
trapped in mangrove areas and mud flats oftrapped in mangrove areas and mud flats of
brackishwaters.brackishwaters.
 P. monodonP. monodon seed is available throughout theseed is available throughout the
year in the entire wast coast and during July toyear in the entire wast coast and during July to
October in Goa and October to April inOctober in Goa and October to April in
Karnataka coasts.Karnataka coasts. P. indicusP. indicus seed is availableseed is available
from February to December on the eastfrom February to December on the east coastcoast
and January to October on the west coast.and January to October on the west coast. P.P.
merguiensismerguiensis seed is found from February to Mayseed is found from February to May
and October to December in the west coast.and October to December in the west coast.

58. Metapenaeus dobsoniMetapenaeus dobsoni seed is foundseed is found
during February to August on the westduring February to August on the west
coast, whereascoast, whereas M. affinisM. affinis seed isseed is availableavailable
from October to December on the westfrom October to December on the west
coast.coast. M. monocerosM. monoceros seed is availableseed is available
from September to April on the west coast,from September to April on the west coast,
whereas on the east coast it is availablewhereas on the east coast it is available
from March to September.from March to September. M. brevicornisM. brevicornis
seed is found in March and April on theseed is found in March and April on the
Gujarat Coast and October to DecemberGujarat Coast and October to December
on the West Bengal coast.on the West Bengal coast.

59.  BRACKISH WATER FARMSBRACKISH WATER FARMS
 India is estimated to possess along its coast a total area of 2 millionIndia is estimated to possess along its coast a total area of 2 million
ha suitable for brackishwater fish farming. But the total area underha suitable for brackishwater fish farming. But the total area under
cultivation was only 65,100 ha in 1990-91, which increased tocultivation was only 65,100 ha in 1990-91, which increased to
1,41,837 ha in 1998-99 by the construction of coastal aquafarms as1,41,837 ha in 1998-99 by the construction of coastal aquafarms as
the demand for shrimps increased tremendously in the internationalthe demand for shrimps increased tremendously in the international
market.market.
 Presently, brackishwater aquaculture is restricted to shrimp farmingPresently, brackishwater aquaculture is restricted to shrimp farming
in farm ponds owing to the high export potential of penaeid shrimpsin farm ponds owing to the high export potential of penaeid shrimps
(Penaeus monodon(Penaeus monodon andand P. indicus).P. indicus).
 The Sunderbans of West Bengal and the extensive backwaters ofThe Sunderbans of West Bengal and the extensive backwaters of
Kerala, where certain amount of brackishwater culture alreadyKerala, where certain amount of brackishwater culture already
exists, and other areas along the coasts of Bay of Bengal and theexists, and other areas along the coasts of Bay of Bengal and the
Arabian Sea are suitable for development of coastal aquaculture.Arabian Sea are suitable for development of coastal aquaculture.
 TheThe bheribheri fish culture of West Bengal, the shrimp culture in paddyfish culture of West Bengal, the shrimp culture in paddy
fields of Kerala and culture of fish in lagoons are the three principalfields of Kerala and culture of fish in lagoons are the three principal
types of traditional fish culture practised in India. The moderntypes of traditional fish culture practised in India. The modern
brackishwater farming in coastal aquafarms assumes considerablebrackishwater farming in coastal aquafarms assumes considerable
importance in recent times.importance in recent times.

60.  Bheries (Impoundments)Bheries (Impoundments)
 Brackishwater fish culture in impoundments comprisesBrackishwater fish culture in impoundments comprises
cultivation of fish in tidal waters admitted through sluicescultivation of fish in tidal waters admitted through sluices
in suitably embanked enclosures.in suitably embanked enclosures.
 These are calledThese are called bhasabadha fisheriesbhasabadha fisheries oror bheriesbheries inin
Bengal. Bheries are compounded low-lying areas inBengal. Bheries are compounded low-lying areas in
deltaic West Bengal adjacent to estuaries and creeksdeltaic West Bengal adjacent to estuaries and creeks
where culture is carried out round the year in a traditionalwhere culture is carried out round the year in a traditional
way. The size of such bheries varies from 3 to 260 ha.way. The size of such bheries varies from 3 to 260 ha.
Their numbers have been estimated at 1,392 togetherTheir numbers have been estimated at 1,392 together
constituting an area of 42,600 ha in three brackishwaterconstituting an area of 42,600 ha in three brackishwater
zones, viz., low saline (0.15-9.5 PPT), medium salinezones, viz., low saline (0.15-9.5 PPT), medium saline
(0.27- 15.8 PPT) and high saline (6.6-36.2PPT) zones.(0.27- 15.8 PPT) and high saline (6.6-36.2PPT) zones.

61.  In saline bheries, the important fishes, shrimpsIn saline bheries, the important fishes, shrimps
and crabs generally cultured are: a) fishes –and crabs generally cultured are: a) fishes –
Lates calcarifer, Mugil parsia, M. tade, M.Lates calcarifer, Mugil parsia, M. tade, M.
speigleri, Mystus gulio, Polynemus tetradactylus,speigleri, Mystus gulio, Polynemus tetradactylus,
Anguilla bengalensis, Scalophagus argus,Anguilla bengalensis, Scalophagus argus,
Glossogobius giuris; b)Glossogobius giuris; b) shrimps -shrimps - PenaeusPenaeus
monodon, P. indicus, Metapenaeus monoceros,monodon, P. indicus, Metapenaeus monoceros,
M. brevicornis, M. rosenbergii, M. rude,M. brevicornis, M. rosenbergii, M. rude,
Palaemon styliferus, Acetes sp.,Palaemon styliferus, Acetes sp.,
ParapenaeopsisParapenaeopsis spp. and c) crabs –spp. and c) crabs – ScyllaScylla
serrata.serrata.
 Around 170 bheries covering about 8000 haAround 170 bheries covering about 8000 ha
area receives sewage in different concentrationsarea receives sewage in different concentrations
and utilize these organic wastes for fishand utilize these organic wastes for fish
production. Indian major carps, exotic carps inproduction. Indian major carps, exotic carps in
addition to tilapia form the desired species inaddition to tilapia form the desired species in
bheries.bheries.

62. Paddy FieldsPaddy Fields
The seasonal utilization of paddy fields forThe seasonal utilization of paddy fields for
culture of brackishwater shrimps andculture of brackishwater shrimps and
fishes is quite common in West Bengalfishes is quite common in West Bengal
and Kerala. The practice followed in Westand Kerala. The practice followed in West
Bengal involves the use of irrigation canal,Bengal involves the use of irrigation canal,
if any, lying in the vicinity of paddy fieldsif any, lying in the vicinity of paddy fields
through which fish fry are allowed to enterthrough which fish fry are allowed to enter
the fields where they grow during thethe fields where they grow during the
paddy cultivation period. About 1.12paddy cultivation period. About 1.12
million ha area of paddy field in India.million ha area of paddy field in India.

63. The fish are cropped just before theThe fish are cropped just before the
harvesting of paddy. The importantharvesting of paddy. The important
species of fish and shrimps cultured in thespecies of fish and shrimps cultured in the
paddy fields are: Fish -paddy fields are: Fish - Mugil parsia, M.Mugil parsia, M.
tade, Rhinomugil corsula, Lates calcarifertade, Rhinomugil corsula, Lates calcarifer
andand Mystus gulioMystus gulio and shrimps -and shrimps - PalaemonPalaemon
carcinus, Macrobrachium rude,carcinus, Macrobrachium rude,
Metapenaus monoceros, M. brevicornisMetapenaus monoceros, M. brevicornis
and Penaeus semisulcatus.and Penaeus semisulcatus. In recentIn recent
years,years, Penaeus monodonPenaeus monodon is alsois also
introduced as a supplementary stock.introduced as a supplementary stock.

64.  In Kerala, the brackishwater fish culture isIn Kerala, the brackishwater fish culture is
practised in the low-lying paddy fields calledpractised in the low-lying paddy fields called
pokkali fields.pokkali fields.
 Paddy is cultivated from July to September whenPaddy is cultivated from July to September when
the surrounding back waters are low in salinitythe surrounding back waters are low in salinity
and from October, shrimp culture is practised inand from October, shrimp culture is practised in
these fields. In the pokkali fields, shrimpsthese fields. In the pokkali fields, shrimps
constitute about 80% of the catch, the speciesconstitute about 80% of the catch, the species
beingbeing Penaeus indicus, P. semisulcatusPenaeus indicus, P. semisulcatus
Metapenaeus monoceros, M. dobsoni,Metapenaeus monoceros, M. dobsoni,
Macrobrachium rude, Palaemon styliferus,Macrobrachium rude, Palaemon styliferus,
Caridina gracilirostris and AcetesCaridina gracilirostris and Acetes sp. The rest ofsp. The rest of
the crop comprises mullets, pearlspots andthe crop comprises mullets, pearlspots and
chromideschromides (Etroplus maculatus).(Etroplus maculatus).

65. Important species of PenaeidImportant species of Penaeid
prawns and life history ofprawns and life history of
typical Prawntypical Prawn