Bivalve resources of the Chettuva estuary, Kerala

Clams form a major exploited resource of Chettuva estuary. A rapid survey was carried out to assess the bivalve resource and potential stock. The estuary harbors an estimated standing stock of 378 t of bivalves; Meretrix casta is the dominant species (340 t) followed by Villorita cyprinoides (33.6 t). Aspects of conservation and management of bivalve fishery are detailed. The prospects for enhancing bivalve production from the estuary through relaying/ semi culture of clams and promoting mussel farming in the lower reaches of the estuary are discussed