Highlighting the significance of the underutilized mesopelagic resources within the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), marine fishery experts convened at a workshop organized by the Mangalore Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).
The oceanic mesopelagic zone, situated 200-1,000 meters below sea level, hosts numerous small fishes crucial to ecosystem dynamics. Despite being globally abundant, mesopelagic fishes, such as lantern fishes, remain largely unexploited due to their high lipid or wax ester content.
Experts suggest that these fishes, rich in protein, lipids, and minerals, hold potential for various applications, including fishmeal for poultry and animal feed, as well as crop fertilizers.
To gauge the accurate yield potential and economic viability of these resources, experts propose conducting pilot studies. Neetu Kumari Prasad, Joint Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, Government of India, expressed support for entrepreneurial initiatives aimed at sustainable utilization of mesopelagic resources, advocating for exploration beyond territorial waters.
B Meenakumari, former Chairperson of the National Biodiversity Authority, stressed the need for developing effective harvesting techniques to sustainably utilize this untapped potential.
CMFRI Director A Gopalakrishnan estimated a harvestable potential of 1.6 million tonnes of mesopelagic resources within the Indian EEZ. However, comprehensive studies, including accurate mapping, economic analysis, and post-harvest utilization, are essential to leverage these resources for fishmeal production and cosmetic product development derived from waxy esters present in these fishes.