Journal of the Marine Biological Association of India

Present status of clam fisheries of India.

Volume 33 Issue 1&2

K. A. Narasimham

Abstract

Among the exploited bivalve resources of India, clams are by far the most abundant. Several species belonging to a number of families constitute the clam resources and they are exploited all along the Indian Coast. In recent times a steady export market for the frozen clam meat is being developed. The distribution of clams, their biology, ecology, physiology, exploitation, resource potential, utilisation and marketing are reviewed in this paper. Based on this review, the lacunae in the present state of our knowledge for the development of clam fisheries and the constraints thereof are identified. In view of their sedentary habits and easy accessibility for exploitation, the clams are particularly vulnerable for overexploitation. The thrust areas where research input is required for the rational exploitation of clam resources are highlighted in this paper.

Date : 31-12-1991