News

This shark was born before the Taj Mahal was built… and it’s still swimming today!

Yes, you read that right! Scientists discovered a Greenland shark, currently living in the icy waters of the North Atlantic, that could be over 400 years old — making it the world’s longest-living vertebrate.

Researchers used a unique method called radiocarbon dating on the shark’s eye lens proteins (which don’t change from birth) to estimate her age. They concluded she was likely born between 1501 and 1744, with most predictions placing her around 1620.

Measuring nearly 5 meters in length, this incredible female Greenland shark has outlived every known vertebrate, including the 211-year-old bowhead whale!

Greenland sharks are known for:
Growing extremely slowly (they mature at 150 years!)
Living for centuries in deep, cold waters
Giving us new insights into marine longevity and evolution

As climate change, overfishing, and pollution threaten marine life, stories like this remind us how precious and mysterious our oceans truly are.

Born before Shakespeare. Still alive today. The ocean holds more secrets than we can imagine.

Once the king of coastal aquaculture, Tiger Prawn farming in Andhra Pradesh is slowly fading from the spotlight. Farmers are switching to Vannamei shrimp, which is easier to farm, cheaper to maintain, and gives better returns.

Why Tiger Prawn is Losing Popularity:
High risk of diseases like White Spot Virus & EHP
Higher input cost and longer culture period
Difficulty in getting high-quality seed from reliable hatcheries

Why Farmers Prefer Vannamei Now:
Better survival rate and resistance to diseases
Easier access to seed and hatchery support
Quick turnaround with higher market demand

In West Godavari alone, Vannamei now covers 2.5 lakh hectares. Meanwhile, tiger prawn farming is limited and shrinking each year.
But not all hope is lost for Tiger Prawn lovers! With good biosecurity, strong disease management, and high-quality broodstock, this premium species can still shine.

What’s Needed for a Comeback:
Reliable hatcheries with virus-free broodstock
Farmer training on disease management
Policy support to diversify shrimp farming

The future of prawn farming depends on innovation, resilience, and smart choices!

The 2nd Indian Fisheries Outlook (IFO) concluded in Berhampur, Odisha, with a strong focus on sustainable blue growth and innovation in the fisheries sector. Hosted from 12th to 14th July 2025 at the College of Fisheries (OUAT), this landmark event brought together 250+ farmers, scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, and youth for three power-packed days.

What made it special?
376+ research abstracts
7 major thematic sessions on climate-smart aquaculture, genetics, post-harvest, feeds, aquatic health & more
National exhibition on fisheries innovation
Young Fisheries Talent Award (YFTA) showcasing 30 youth researchers
Open dialogue with farmers and 10 leading industrial experts
Massive support for “Phrase4Change” – a vision for empowering small-scale fishers

Dignitaries like Shri Gokulananda Mallik (Minister, Odisha), Dr. J.K. Jena (ICAR- Indian Council of Agricultural Research), Dr. B.K. Das (Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI)), Dr. K.K. Lal (Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture CIBA(ICAR)), and Dr. B.K. Behera (National Fisheries Development Board) joined hands to highlight the need for synergy between fisheries, agriculture, and livelihoods.

From policy to pond, the event served as a national platform to reimagine fisheries with research, technology, and farmer-first thinking.

Let’s build the future of Indian fisheries—climate-resilient, youth-driven, and inclusive!

If you’re a traditional fisherman in Goa looking to buy or build a small fishing boat (below 26 feet) for inland waters, this update is for YOU!

The Goa Directorate of Fisheries has changed the eligibility rules for its financial assistance scheme for new fishing canoes.

What’s New?
To apply, you must now have at least ONE of the following:
An OBC Kharvi caste certificate
A profession certificate from the Mamlatdar, Municipal Chief Officer, or Panchayat Secretary
OR a valid fishing net license registered with the Fisheries Department

PLUS: You must apply within 6 months of registering your canoe with the Captain of Ports Department

Why it matters
This scheme supports small traditional fishers who want to modernize their operations
Ensures help reaches genuine fishing communities
Adds clarity and accountability to government support programs
If you or someone you know is planning to get a new fishing canoe — don’t miss the 6-month deadline!

Pulasa season has started — and as expected, the madness has returned.

In Andhra Pradesh, a single Godavari Pulasa fish was recently sold for ₹22,000 at an auction. For those who follow this tradition, this is no surprise. In peak demand, prices can touch ₹50,000 per fish.

This happens every monsoon, when the Pulasa swims upstream into the Godavari from the sea. Its season is short, the catch is limited, and the cultural demand is high.

Local traders say it’s not just about taste — the Pulasa holds value for its soft texture, local identity, and even medicinal beliefs. The auction hype adds to the premium pricing.

For many, this fish is not just food. It’s part of monsoon culture.
It’s also a reminder that strong cultural branding — even without export tags or fancy packaging — can create real value at home.

Might be worth asking: Can more native fish in India be positioned like this?