Three million Paphia malabarica seeds released into Ashtamudi

In a significant step to combat the dwindling population of short neck clams, the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has initiated a stock enhancement programme.

On Tuesday, three million seeds of short neck clam (Paphia malabarica), produced at the Vizhinjam Regional Centre of the CMFRI, were released into Ashtamudi Lake. This strategic intervention aims to revitalise the clam population in the lake, which has been experiencing a significant decline. Paphia malabarica is India’s first Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified fisheries. The ranching was part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) Blue Growth Project, aimed to restore the marine ecosystem, ensure long-term sustainability, empower local fishermen, and stimulate export revenues. According to officials, it is a sustainable approach to replenish clam stocks and safeguard this vital resource in the backwaters. As part of the stock enhancement programme, clam seeds were released in two specific areas: Bishop Thuruthu, designated as a clam sanctuary, and Valam Ansil Thuruth. This initiative became feasible after a year of intensive research by the CMFRI, culminating in the successful development of captive breeding technology for this species. This breakthrough enabled the production of clam seeds for release into the lake. Short neck clam is a treasured resource in Ashtamudi Lake with significant economic and ecological importance.

“However, in recent years, the fishery of this clam has witnessed a drastic decline, threatening the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen who rely on this resource,” said M. K. Anil, Principal Scientist at the Vizhinjam Regional Centre of CMFRI.

According to CMFRI estimates, recent annual catches have fallen below 1,000 tonnes as against 10,000 tonnes during the early 1990s. This clam species has substantial export potential, as international demand for clams continues to rise, offering significant economic opportunities for local communities. CMFRI scientists pointed out that key issues such as environmental pollution, invasion of non-native species like the Charru mussel, and the impacts of climate change, including altered salinity and water temperature, have significantly reduced the clam population.

CMFRI Vizhinjam Regional Centre head B. Santhosh; Principal Scientists Anil M. K. and Imelda Joseph; Fisheries Joint Director H. Salim; Fisheries Deputy Director Ramesh Sasidharan; CMFRI former Principal Scientist Appukuttan K. K. and Scientist Gomathi P. were also present on the occasion.

Published - December 17, 2024 07:31 pm IST