Long line farming of Kappaphycus alvarezi in Tuticorin coastal areas and its implication on environment

Abstract

Kappaphycus alvarezi, one of the fastest growing tropical red algae, is currently been cultivated by a group of fishermen in many areas of Tuticorin coastal waters. It is used mainly as the raw material for commercial production of hydrocolloid known as Kappa carrageen. In Tuticorin, long line method of culture is followed in coastal waters where the tidal currents are strong. In this system, thin lines having loops to secure multiple small seedlings are spread at regular intervals attached to longer and thicker lines. Poly-ethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles with caps are used as floats (Fig.1). Weighed blocks are used as anchors and use sufficient quantity of floats to maintain the proper depth below the water surface level.