Exploratory trawl fishing off Tirunelveli coast

Abstract

The results of exploratory trawling carried out from 1968 to 1980 on the continental shelf and slope off Tirunelveli Coast, between 07' and WON are discussed. Attempt is made to study the relative abundance of major groups of demersal fishes, their seasonal, depthwise and areawise distribution. This throws light into the potentialities of ground fish resources in this area. The Fishery Survey of India trawlers based at Tuticorin, conducted trawling for demersal fish, yielding a production rate of 129.6 kg per hour, revealing the existence of fairly rich fishing grounds in this area especially of perches and elasmobranchs. Perches mnstituted 33.35% of the total catch in these trawlers. Elasmobranchs ranked next forming 2426% of the catch. The percentage of perches was as high as 53% and 61% in 08'N subareas 6 B and 6 C during 1976. Perches being a quality fish with high demand and in view of its abundance, its exploitation could be intensified considerably.