On the scope for marine fisheries research and development in the Andaman and Nicobar islands

The potential for marine fisheries resources in the EEZ around the Andaman and Nicobar Inlands has been estimated and marine fishing at present is confined to the artisanal fisheries limited to the very narrow belt of the coastal areas which can be reached by the indigenous fishing crafts operating the traditional fishing gears. The rich fisheries wealth around these islands have to be exploited by suitable craft and gear specially oriented for the pelagic fisheries resources. After conducting research work on assessment of fisheries resources of the area, it is felt that there is great scope for developing sea farming in the coastal areas of Andaman and Nicobar islands for finfish and molluscs. Examination of fish catches at a number of places on the islands and those from the confiscated vessels indicated that fish may be dying due to old age. This is a clear indication of under exploitation of the resources. Development of offshore and oceanic fisheries needs development of necessary infrastructural facilities on the islands for berthing, loading, unloading, repair, dry docking, bunkering and storage. The National Marine Park area harbours a number of varieties of corals, ornamental fishes, live-bait and other invertebrates. The potential of various marine ornamental fishes has to be assessed for rational exploitation in due course