Scientists at the Mangalore Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute have achieved a significant milestone by successfully cultivating Indian Pompano (Trachinotus mookalee) for the first time in Karnataka. This accomplishment follows a decade-long journey that began with the introduction of cage culture in the state’s coastal waters in 2009-10.
The innovative cage culture technique, which has gained popularity, now boasts around 800-900 cages installed in estuarine waters along the Karnataka coast. The success of this method attracted financial support from the Department of Fisheries, Karnataka, National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), and other organizations, benefiting over 500 families engaged in the sector.
While seabass, red snapper, and snubnose pompano were successfully reared in these cages over the years, the cultivation of Indian Pompano marks a significant achievement. The inaugural farming project took place in Udupi district’s Swarna estuary, Paduthonse village, under the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan program (SCSP), focusing on inclusive growth and livelihood opportunities for marginalized communities.
Beneficiaries of the SCSP program received comprehensive training on various aspects of cage culture, and Indian Pompano seeds were procured from the marine finfish hatchery of the Vishakhapatnam Regional Centre of ICAR-CMFRI. In November 2022, 4,000 seeds were stocked in two fabricated cages, and after a five-month grow-out period, the Indian Pompano was successfully harvested in batches between June 2 and June 26. The impressive results included an average growth of 400-450 grams, a total harvest of 1,300 kg of pompano, and an exceptional survival rate of 90%.
The beneficiaries sold the harvested fish locally, fetching prices ranging from Rs 450 to Rs. 490 per kg. This successful cultivation not only demonstrates the rapid growth rate and favorable market demand for Indian Pompano but also its ability to reach the preferred table size within a short period of 5-6 months. The research program was led by Dr. A P Dineshbabu and his team of scientists, highlighting the potential for innovative aquaculture practices in the region.