Abstract:
Potential catch of marine small
pelagics in Indian EEZ, has been
estimated at 1.3 million tonnes.
which forms 33% of the total
potential and 78% of the pelagic
resource potential (Anon. 2000).
Small pelagic fishes are typically lesstban 30 em in size. They occupy alow trophic level,have comparatively ·
short life span. high fecundity andfast growth rate and hence betterresilience to fishing pres~ure. Smallpelagics include fishes such as oilsardine. other sardines, anchovies.s.hads, other clupeoids, mackerel.scads. horse mackerel and Bombayduck. The present landings of smallpelagics in India is about 0.95million tonnes. which forms 40% of
the total marine landings in India.Though produced in bulk. theirquayside prices are low and there isconsiderable wastage of fish.Enhanced production, valueaddition and total utilisation ofsmall pelagics will help in reducingshortages in fish supply
