Fattening of mud crab: an approach of aquasilviculture in Andaman Islands

During September - December 2004, mud crab fattening was attempted in tide-fed earthen ponds in Lakshmipur (North Andaman) and Bamboo Tickri (Middle Andaman) with mangroves such as Rhizophora mucronata, R. apiculata and Avicennia marina, covering 60 to 80% of the total pond area. Water crabs of Scylla tranquebarica, S. olivacea and S. serrata, each weighing 500 - 1500 g were stocked in the pond at a density of 0.5 kg/m2 with suitable hideouts to reduce cannibalism. In 30 to 35 days, 85% survival was obtained with 8% weight increment. This paper outlines the measures that may be adopted for practicing aquaculture in mangroves