Scientists from the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have put forth a recommendation to harness the potential of pearly hairtails, a non-conventional deep-sea resource found in the south-eastern Arabian Sea, for the fishmeal production industry. According to a recent paper published by CMFRI scientists, these pearly hairtails, located between depths of 200 and 600 meters, have garnered enthusiastic acceptance from the fishmeal industry.
The paper suggests that the substantial population of pearly hairtails presents a promising opportunity for deep-sea trawlers to diversify their catch, thereby improving returns amid challenges such as increased fuel costs. Additionally, targeting this non-conventional resource could significantly reduce the dependence of fishmeal factories, which currently resort to using juveniles of commercially important conventional resources.
While pearly hairtails are edible, their small size and cumbersome processing make them less suitable for human consumption. Instead, they are well-suited for the Surimi industry and fishmeal sectors. The paper highlights that trawlers, particularly from Kerala’s southern districts targeting shrimps and cephalopods, have reported catching pearly hairtails on return trips to enhance earnings.
Despite being found in deeper areas beyond conventional fishing grounds, the paper indicates that pearly hairtails are now being consistently targeted due to the demand from fish meal factories. The most abundant grounds have been identified on the continental slopes off Thiruvananthapuram and Kanyakumari districts at depths ranging between 300 and 600 meters. While the fish variety is migratory, the catch rate has been encouraging, ranging from seven to 10 tonnes per haul.
Initially, only trawlers from Kerala were involved in utilizing this resource, but the paper notes that trawlers from neighbouring Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have also begun fishing for pearly hairtails. A tentative estimate from October 2022 to February 2023 suggests a catch of over four lakh tonnes of pearly hairtails, indicating the growing interest in this non-conventional variety.
The paper underscores the importance of conducting detailed biological ecosystem studies to formulate a sustainable management plan for this resource, emphasizing the need for responsible utilization to ensure long-term benefits.
Source: The Hindu
