Category:

News

Shrimp Farmers in Andhra Pradesh Struggle Amid Soaring Costs and Global Competition
NationalAquacultureNews

Shrimp Farmers in Andhra Pradesh Struggle Amid Soaring Costs and Global Competition

by Fishery News
written by Fishery News

The Prakasam Shrimp Farmers’ Association has raised an alarm over the severe challenges faced by shrimp farmers in the region, attributing their plight to the escalating costs of feed and the perceived unaffordability of power tariffs. Association General Secretary D. Gopinath highlighted the urgency of proactive measures from both the Union and State governments to create a favourable environment for shrimp farmers.

Despite a partial recovery in shrimp prices from below ₹200 per kg to ₹260 per kg, farmers find themselves unable to break even due to the persistently high costs of feed and electricity, totalling an additional ₹70 per kg. The intense competition from global counterparts, particularly from countries like Ecuador, exacerbates the struggles faced by Andhra Pradesh shrimp farmers, according to Mr. Gopinath.

The feed cost remains stubbornly high at ₹86 per kg, even with a decline in input prices such as soybean and imported minerals, as noted by Gopinath. Seeking relief, Association President S. Anji Reddy urged the government to provide electricity to shrimp farmers at a subsidized rate of ₹1.50 per unit, irrespective of the unit’s size.

Many shrimp farmers in Prakasam have not benefited from the reduced power tariff, paying ₹4 per unit, particularly those engaged in aquaculture on degraded ‘DKT’ wasteland. Faced with losses exceeding ₹1 lakh per acre in the previous season, farmers are contemplating a crop holiday this season. Consequently, numerous hatcheries in the district have closed, prompting calls for a simplified clearance system from the Central government for struggling hatcheries.

Addressing the broader implications, Prakasam District Hatcheries Association President A.V. Satyanarayana Raju stressed the need for amendments to the Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act to encourage responsible aquaculture in coastal areas while preserving the environment. Failure to take corrective measures could result in a drastic 50% reduction in shrimp production, currently valued at ₹50,000 crore, adversely affecting the livelihoods of stakeholders in the coastal region, warned Association Joint Secretary Subbaji Chowdary.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newly Discovered Chameleon Fish Species Named Badis limaakumi Honoring Collaborator
NationalNews

Newly Discovered Chameleon Fish Species Named ‘Badis limaakumi’ Honoring Collaborator

by Fishery News
written by Fishery News

Renowned fish scientist Dr. Praveenraj Jayasimhan has identified a previously unknown species of Badis fish, naming it ‘Badis limaakumi’ in honor of his collaborator, Dr. Limaakum, from Nagaland. The discovery was made when Dr. Jayasimhan received photographs of a striking and sizable Badis species from Dr. Limaakum in November 2020.

Due to the remarkable color-changing behavior of the fish, Dr. Jayasimhan requested live photos to capture its original hues accurately. After receiving a suitable set of specimens and photographs in 2021, he began examining the species. This unique fish displayed distinctive characteristics, notably a dark black blotch on its gills, resembling the Badis assamensis found in Assam. However, it lacked the series of blotches on the body typically seen in the latter species.

In recognition of Dr. Limaakum’s significant contribution to the discovery, Dr. Jayasimhan chose to name the new species ‘Badis limaakumi.’ Dr. Limaakum had also played a pivotal role in uncovering two other new species in Nagaland the previous year.

In an interview with EastMojo, Dr. Limaakum expressed his initial intention to name the fish ‘Badis milaki’ or ‘milakiensis’ after the river where it was found. However, Dr. Jayasimhan insisted that the fish be named in his honor, to which Dr. Limaakum graciously agreed.

The study detailing this discovery was published in the taxonomic journal ‘Zootaxa’ following a rigorous peer review process. Badis fish species are often referred to as Chameleon fish due to their remarkable ability to rapidly change colour during breeding, to blend into their surroundings, or when experiencing stress.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
State Level Workshop Urges Legislative Safeguards for Fisheries Sustainability
NationalNewsSustainability

State-Level Workshop Urges Legislative Safeguards for Fisheries Sustainability

by Fishery News
written by Fishery News

Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos) concluded a state-level workshop focusing on fisheries resources and sustainability. The event, held in collaboration with the Coastal Area Development Agency for Liberation (CADAL), underscored the urgent need for legislative measures to safeguard fishermen’s rights, protect inland water bodies, and preserve fisheries resources.

The workshop participants expressed concern over the Union government’s policy to mine the seas for minerals, calling for a rollback to ensure long-term sustainability and the rights of fishermen. The collaborative effort aimed to address issues related to policy formation and identify gaps in the development plans for the fisheries sector.

Prominent speakers at the workshop emphasized that the Union government should prioritize the sustainability of marine ecology and the livelihoods of fishermen while implementing its Blue Economy policies. Experts highlighted the necessity for accelerated and reinforced research and studies on climate change and its impact on the sea and fisheries sector.

The recommendations arising from the workshop discussions will be presented to the State government for careful consideration, according to CADAL Director Sabas Ignatius. The plenary session was presided over by Kufos Vice Chancellor T. Pradeep Kumar, with workshop coordinator Anu Gopinath providing insights into the collaborative efforts aimed at ensuring a robust and sustainable future for Kerala’s fisheries sector.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Fishing for Mental Wellness Study Reveals Regular Fishing Linked to Lower Risk of Depression and Anxiety
FarmingNationalNews

Fishing for Mental Wellness

by Fishery News
written by Fishery News

A recent study conducted by researchers at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, Ulster University, and Queen’s University, Belfast, has unveiled compelling evidence that regular fishing may contribute to a significant reduction in the risk of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.

The research involved surveying 1,752 males, delving into their fishing habits, previous mental health issues, exercise routines, and overall well-being. Astonishingly, participants engaging in frequent fishing activities were found to be nearly 17% less likely to have experienced mental health conditions compared to their non-fishing counterparts.

The study, published in the journal Epidemiologia this summer, revealed a direct correlation between the frequency of fishing and improved mental health. The authors of the study emphasized that encouraging regular participation in recreational angling could serve as a dual strategy for promoting relaxation and positive mental health, along with fostering increased levels of physical activity among those dealing with mental health challenges.

Dr. Mike Trott, a researcher from the Centre for Mental Health Research at the University of Queensland, highlighted the unexpected nature of the findings. “We were expecting to find that angling in general has positive effects on mental health — however, we did not expect that the more often you fish, the better the benefits are,” Trott stated.

While acknowledging certain limitations of the study, such as its focus on male participants, Trott emphasized fishing as a potential mindfulness activity. He suggested that taking up the hobby regularly could offer notable mental health benefits.

The study’s findings resonate with the well-established notion that fishing positively influences mental health. Dr. Drew Ramsey, a psychiatrist and assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York, although not directly involved in the study, expressed encouragement at the results. Ramsey highlighted the potential mindfulness aspect of fishing and recommended it as a valuable activity for mental well-being. For those not drawn to fishing, Ramsey proposed exploring alternative mindfulness-promoting activities like yoga, tai chi, or even colouring.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Fisherman Hooks Monstrous Human Toothed Beast Shatters Maryland Record
NewsAquacultureInternational

Fisherman Hooks Monstrous ‘Human-Toothed’ Beast, Shatters Maryland Record

by Fishery News
written by Fishery News

Brian Summerlin, 38, reeled in a colossal sheepshead with eerily human-like teeth while fishing in Tangier Sound, off Maryland, leaving the angler and the fishing community astounded. The peculiar creature, notorious for its thieving habits and elusive nature, proved a challenging catch for Brian.

“The sheepshead are amazing fish that have adapted to the food they eat,” explained Brian. “They have front teeth that can bite off barnacles and molar-like teeth to crush crustaceans.”

What made this catch even more extraordinary was the monstrous size of the sheepshead, weighing a staggering 16.6lb. Brian’s catch obliterated the previous Maryland record of 14.1lb set in August 2020, showcasing an exceptional leap from the average sheepshead weight of 3 to 4lb.

The battle to haul the sheepshead from the depths of Tangier Sound was no small task, as these hard-fighting fish are known for their attempts to escape to underwater structures. Brian’s friend Kris offered crucial advice, preventing the line from snapping as the fish resisted capture.

Remarkably, the sheepshead already had a hook in its mouth, recognizable to Brian as the one lost just an hour prior when a fish broke his line. The catch was later officially weighed on certified scales at Kool Ice and Seafood Company in Cambridge, Maryland.

The record-breaking sheepshead is now officially recognized by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, securing its place in the annals of Chesapeake Bay Division history. Brian expressed his excitement, stating, “I always knew there was a possibility to break the record,” and added that his family enjoyed savoring the sheepshead, a favorite in their household.

This exceptional catch follows Todd Elder’s world record sheepshead catch in May, solidifying Maryland’s reputation as a hotspot for remarkable fishing achievements. Elder’s 17.4lb sheepshead set a spearfishing record, as acknowledged by the International Underwater Spearfishing Association.

Source: Dailymail UK

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Malta International Fish Fest 2023 Celebrates Rich Fishing Heritage
NewsAquacultureInternationalTrade

Malta International Fish Fest 2023 Celebrates Rich Fishing Heritage

by Fishery News
written by Fishery News

The 2023 edition of the Malta International Fish Fest took centre stage in the charming coastal town of Marsaxlokk on September 30th, followed by festivities in Mellieha, a picturesque village in northern Malta, on Sunday.

The festival, a lively celebration of Malta’s traditional fishing culture, aimed to raise awareness about the island’s deep-rooted maritime heritage. Attendees immersed themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, indulging in a unique opportunity to purchase an array of fresh seafood, savor local culinary delights, and partake in the joyous sounds of Maltese traditional music.

The event not only provided a platform for locals and tourists to appreciate the significance of fisheries in Malta but also showcased the resilience of a community deeply connected to its maritime roots. As the festivities unfolded, the coastal towns came alive with the spirit of the festival, becoming a melting pot of cultural exchange and gastronomic exploration.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Auditor General Slams Meghalaya Fisheries Department for Wasteful Expenditure on Inoperative Fish Market
NationalAquacultureFarmingNews

Auditor General Slams Meghalaya Fisheries Department for Wasteful Expenditure on Inoperative Fish Market

by Fishery News
written by Fishery News

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has criticized the Meghalaya Department of Fisheries for an “idle expenditure” of Rs 1.44 crore on a fish market in Nongpoh’s Saiden village. The modern market, funded by the National Fisheries Development Board, has remained unused for over three years due to what the CAG deems an imprudent site selection.

The CAG found that the construction project, approved at Rs 1.65 crore, included various components such as a market building, fencing, approach road, rainwater harvesting, transformer installation, and the purchase of freezers and water storage tanks. However, the market, inaugurated in August 2018, was handed over to the Dorbar Shnong committee only in July 2019, almost a year later.

Despite efforts to attract more consumers by allowing the sale of additional items like meat, vegetables, and fruits, the market failed to gain traction. An attempt to lease it out also proved futile after receiving no responses to an expression of interest.

A joint physical verification revealed that the market building, equipped with 22 stalls, freezers, and a transformer, was located 6.2 km away from the Nongpoh market and remained unused. The CAG report highlighted the absence of a feasibility study before selecting the site, resulting in low footfall and defeating the purpose of providing a modern market for fish farmers.

The Department of Fisheries defended its decision, stating that the location was chosen for its logistical convenience, as it was near the Guwahati-Shillong National Highway and provided free of cost. However, the CAG pointed out the lack of recorded evidence for the claimed joint survey, spot inspection, or review meetings with stakeholders.

The wasteful expenditure underscores the need for thorough planning and feasibility studies in public projects to ensure effective utilization of resources.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Telangana Fisheries Chairman Appeals for Subsistence Allowance Increase and Research Institute
NationalNewsResearch and Innovation

Telangana Fisheries Chairman Appeals for Subsistence Allowance Increase and Research Institute

by Fishery News
written by Fishery News

Pittala Ravinder, Chairman of Telangana State Fishermen Cooperative Federation, has urged Union Fisheries Minister Parshottam Rupala to double the subsistence allowance for fishermen during the 45-day nationwide fishing ban. Currently at Rs 4,500, Ravinder proposed an increase to Rs 9,000 per fisherman. Additionally, he requested the establishment of a regional unit of the Center for Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI) in Hyderabad, with state government support, focusing on research on surface water resources.

During the two-day visit of Union Fisheries Minister Parshottam Rupala to Hyderabad, Ravinder presented a representation discussing fisheries development in Telangana, emphasizing the PMMSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana) scheme overseen by the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB). Ravinder urged the minister to allocate at least 50% of the PMMSY for the welfare of traditional fishermen. He also called for state-level fishermen federations to be directly involved in beneficiary selection and application recommendations. Seeking a 60% subsidy for selected fisheries cooperative societies, Ravinder proposed the construction of subsidized retail fish markets across the state to boost fish consumption.

Furthermore, he appealed for financial assistance from the Centre to replace traditional rafts and putties with solar-powered motorboats for fishermen in Telangana’s reservoirs. Ravinder emphasized the need for a special regulatory law to protect fishermen engaged in surface water resource occupations nationwide while promoting comprehensive fisheries sector development.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Revolutionary Technology Transforms Fish Farming Waste into Valuable Seaweed The SeaFree Project
AquacultureAquatic Health and Disease ManagementFarmingNationalNews

Revolutionary Technology Transforms Fish Farming Waste into Valuable Seaweed: The SeaFree Project

by Fishery News
written by Fishery News

A consortium led by the University of Copenhagen, in collaboration with Aarhus University and several industry partners, embarks on a pioneering four-year project named SeaFree. This initiative is designed to advance a closed, eco-friendly cycle on land, leveraging residual nutrients and CO2 from shrimp and fish farming to cultivate seaweed for applications in the food and healthcare sectors.

Professor Marianne Thomsen from the University of Copenhagen’s Department of Food Science emphasized the project’s core objective in a recent press release. SeaFree aims to harness seaweed production as a means to absorb and convert emissions from land-based aquaculture into a valuable product. The harvested seaweed will be utilized for dietary supplements, with potential applications in preventing diabetes and innovating sustainable food products. Beyond mitigating emissions, the seaweed produced is not only environmentally friendly but also rich in umami flavor.

The project kicks off with a container setup utilizing Plug’n’Play technology, featuring eight 1,000-liter tanks within a 40ft container. This innovative system, combining saltwater, CO2, nutrients, and LED lights, can generate a full batch of seaweed in just one week, showcasing promising export potential. Thomsen highlighted that SeaFree integrates cutting-edge recycling technology for land-based shrimp and fish farming. Beyond emission capture, the system recirculates surplus heat from the plants to the Plug’n’Play technology. Additionally, the project introduces a novel technology to use surplus heat for drying seaweed, which is then supplied to the healthcare industry.

The end product encompasses climate-friendly fish, shrimp, and sea lettuce—a nutritious, fiber- and protein-rich seaweed variety. Sea lettuce, in particular, serves a dual purpose as both a dietary supplement and an edible accompaniment to seafood.

Professor Thomsen envisions significant global impact if this method is adopted universally by land-based shrimp and fish farms. The SeaFree project, funded with DKK14.4 million (€1.9 million) by Innovation Fund Denmark, has garnered collaboration from industry partners including Pure Algae, DryingMate, Food Diagnostics, Sigrid Therapeutics, XOventure GmbH/Rigi Care, KOST, SOF Odden Caviar, and HanseGarnelen.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Underground Aquafarming to Combat Climate Challenges in UAE
NewsAquacultureFarmingInternational

Underground Aquafarming to Combat Climate Challenges in UAE

by Fishery News
written by Fishery News

As the fishing industry faces mounting pressures worldwide, aquafarming emerges as a potential sustainable solution. Fisheries conservation expert Prof Michel Kaiser suggests that the UAE could pioneer a unique approach by establishing underground aquafarming facilities to mitigate the impact of the country’s extreme climate.

Prof Kaiser, Chief Scientist and Professor of Fisheries Conservation at Heriot-Watt University, proposes harnessing abundant sunlight for energy-intensive aquafarms, making them sustainable using solar power. He envisions moving marine species production onto land and utilizing underground facilities to regulate temperature, given the energy-intensive nature of such operations. The vast desert lands away from coastal areas provide ample space for these innovative facilities.

While the UAE already has an aquaculture sector, including companies like Al Jaraf Fisheries and Fish Farm, Prof Kaiser’s vision aligns with addressing environmental concerns associated with overfishing. Research indicates that the Arabian Gulf and UAE’s east coast waters are among the most at risk globally.

With the UAE’s average per capita annual fish consumption exceeding the global average and the population continuing to grow, aquafarming could play a crucial role in meeting demand sustainably. Prof Kaiser emphasizes the potential of aquaculture not only in providing food but also contributing to marine species conservation through the rearing and releasing of fish.

The upcoming ‘What will we eat?’ summit at Expo 2020 Dubai will feature discussions on sustainable food production, with Prof Kaiser participating in a panel on ‘How to feed the world without destroying the planet.’ The summit aims to explore innovative solutions to global food challenges.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts