Journal of the Marine Biological Association of India

 The status of tuna fishery in Agatti Island in Lakshadweep

Volume 25 Issue 1&2

George Varghese

Abstract

Lakshadweep is the only place in India where an organised tuna fishery is in vogue. Skipjack tuna Katsuwonus pelamis forms the major fishery resource of the waters surrounding these islands. The annual production of 4000 tonnes of tuna from Lakshadweep makes up about 20 % of the total tuna landings in India. Pole and line is the principal gear employed in fishing. The crafts used are 7.62 metres long mechanised boats. Out of the four pole and line tuna fishing Centres in Lakshadweep, about 46% of the total tuna caught is from Agatti Island. Different aspects governing this fishery in Agatti Island are discussed. The seasonal abundance, catch per unit effort, species composition, gonadial condition and feeding habits are presented in this paper.

Date : 30-12-1983