Kollam, Nov. 30 -- The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has reported promising early signs of recovery in the short-neck clam (Paphia malabarica) population of Ashtamudi Lake, one year after the launch of an extensive stock-enhancement programme.
Citing fresh field data indicating widespread spatfall and a modest rise in standing stock, CMFRI has recommended the enforcement of a three-month fishery closure from December 1, coinciding with the peak spawning phase of the rejuvenating resource, sources said.
Under the sea-ranching initiative led by Principal Scientist Dr M. K. Anil, CMFRI's Vizhinjam Regional Centre had released three million (30 lakh) hatchery-produced clam seeds into the lake last year.
The interve...