Review of the Green Mussel Perna viridis Fishery of South West Coast of India

Abstract

The green mussel, Perna viridis (Linnaeus1758) (Bivalvia, Mytilidae) is a commercially important species in India. Estimated total production from the mussel beds along the Malabar Coast during 1996-2008 was 89,593 t and the average annual production was 7,466 t. The total effort was 1,583,639 and the average annual catch per unit of effort was 56.6. Among the eight major mussel landing centres, Chaliyam (28%) recorded the highest production during 2003-2008 followed by Thalasseri / Thalayi and Moodadi / Thikkodi (19%), and Elathur / Kollam (9%). Effort was also highest at Chaliyam (24%) followed by Thalasseri / Thalayi (20%), Moodadi / Thikkodi (18%). The CPUE was highest for Koduvally, (71) followed by Chaliyam (63). The average price per 100 Kg shell-on mussel during 1996-2008 was € 9.9 (INR 617). This fishery sustains the livelihood of 1,551 mussel pickers along the South West Coast. The fishery is dependent on the wild of spat fall whose annual density is influenced by the south west monsoon. The distribution, fishery and management of this fishery along the south west coast of India are described.