4 days ago
CMFRI's seed production technology wins national acclaim
Kochi: Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has achieved national acclaim for its innovative seed production technology for Giant trevally. It has been recognized as one of the top five fisheries innovations in the country by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
The achievement highlights the technology's significance in sustainable mariculture practices. CMFRI director Grinson George stated, "The technology will boost the production of this commercially important fish, contributing to the nation's seafood security and blue economy".
Giant trevally's characteristics, including swift growth and adaptability, position it as an excellent choice for mariculture.
The species thrives in diverse marine and estuarine settings, such as cages, pens and coastal ponds. Its superior growth rate compared to pompanos, combined with its tolerance to varying salinity and water conditions, provides farmers with enhanced operational flexibility. The market value of this popular marine fish ranges from Rs 400 - 700/ kg.
The development process at CMFRI encountered substantial obstacles, particularly due to the species' natural habitat preferences and complex reproduction patterns. The successful technological breakthrough was achieved by a team of scientists including Ambarish P Gop, M Sakthivel and B Santhosh at CMFRI's Vizhinjam regional centre.
Following CMFRI's established protocol utilizing pellet feeds, the fish attains a marketable weight of 500g within five months, progressing to approximately 1kg after eight months of cultivation.
