Observations on the exploitation of clams in Tuticorin

Abstract

Exploitation of marine molluscs is a seasonal activity in Tuticorin. Exploitation of windowpane oyster Placuna placenta was reported earlier in 2001 at Tuticorin Bay mainly for the collection of pearls and the empty shells for shell craft industry. This was followed by large scale collection of the windowpane oyster Pplacenta in 2002 at Vellapatti near Tuticorin for utilization of their shells in cosmetic and paint industry, in poultry feed and lime preparations. In February 2004 large scale exploitation of clams had taken place in Tuticorin for shell craft industry.