Introduction of 'Ringu vala' along Calicut coast with a note on its general impact

Abstract

Along the Calicut coast, the fishing gears in vogue like 'Mathichalavala'.'Ayilachala vaIa','Nethal vala' etc., are employed to catch almost single species resources. Though there are some other gears like 'Kolli vala' (the boat-seine), the catch composition does not vary much from that of the above mentioned gears. More over, these are rarely operated in deeper waters. Hence it is interesting to note the new introduction of 'Ring-seine' net locally called 'Ringu vala' along this coast. While the industry is interested in the production and returns, the biologists are inquisitive about the influence of the fishing gear on the resources. Therefore, the authors feel it worthwhile to present a brief account of the nature of the gear along with catch composition and its general impact on the fishery along this coast.