Observations on the bio-fouling in pearl oyster farm at Krusadai island, Gulf of Mannar

Abstract

Emphasis was laid mainly to identify the dominant groups of biofoulers on pearl oysters and cages in commercial farming during the year 1985-86. The rate of biofouling observed in Krusadai farm was less compared to the observations made at Tuticorin. Comparatively more of fouling was observed during the south west monsoon and north east monsoon periods. During the south west monsoon, barnacles contributed more and during the north east monsoon silt deposition was found to increase the quantum of fouling. Barnacles, bryozoans, molluscan spat, tunicates, decapods, crustaceans and sea weeds were found on pearl oysters and cages throughout the year in varying quantities. Boring by sponges and spionids were practically nil.