Harvesting of cage cultured Asian Sea Bass begins at Sippikulam

The harvesting of cage-cultured Asian Sea Bass in the Integrated Multi-trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system at Sippikulam began on Wednesday. The harvest was undertaken by the Kadaviraal group (name of the local fishermen group), organised by ICAR-Tuticorin Regional Station of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-TRS of CMFRI).

The project was funded by the National Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). The event commenced with the flagging off by the District Collector K. Elambahavath, following which the fish were harvested by the local fishermen.

During the harvesting process, the grown ups were harvested in three batches, totalling a production of 420 kg, with average weight of each fish ranging between one to two kg. This partial harvesting approach was adopted to promote the faster growth of smaller fish and to generate income at regular intervals.

At the event held after harvest, Thoothukudi Collector K. Elambahavath lauded the fishermen and exhorted them to continue with the IMTA farming. He emphasised that the IMTA model offers multiple income streams and ensures steady market supply. He also stressed the importance of sustainability in such activities for long term benefits.

The Joint Director of Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare, Thoothukudi N. Chandra, highlighted the State government schemes aimed at socio economic development of fishermen. Ms. Chandra also elaborated on the advantages of the IMTA system, which supports the combined culture of seaweed, mussels, crab and fish.

T. Bhuvanesh Ram, Assistant Collector (Training), L. Loveson Edward, Senior Scientist and Scientist-in-Charge ICAR-TRS of CMFRI, R.K. Suresh Ramalingam, DDM, NABARD Cluster, Thoothukudi, officials from forest and fisheries department and scientists from ICAR-TRS of CMFRI were present at the event.