MLS regulation yields results, 41% increase in threadfin breams: CMFRI study

Kochi: Implementation of the Minimum Legal Size (MLS), banning juvenile fishing, has led to a 41 per cent increase in the yield of threadfin breams in Kerala, indicating a positive output of the regulation, a study by the ICAR-CMFRI has said.

The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) study on threadfin breams found that the regulation led to an increase in the spawning stock biomass, standing stock biomass, yield and recruitment of this fish which is one of the species most affected by juvenile fishing.

The study was presented at a stakeholder workshop organised by CMFRI to discuss various research findings of the institute with representatives of fishermen and those working in the allied sectors.

In a release, CMFRI said in order to make the regulation more effective, the MLS needs to be implemented across the value chain and strictly enforce mesh size regulation of the fishing nets.

"Curbing juvenile fishing could be more beneficial to the marine fisheries sector and would save the species from the threat of extinction. Over the past seven years, it is estimated that the sector incurred a loss of Rs 1,777 crore due to the juvenile fishing of five species, namely threadfin breams, oil sardine, lizard fish, squid and groupers," CMFRI said in the release quoting the study report.

The estimated average annual loss for fishing young ones of these fishes amounts to Rs. 216 crore, the study report said.

It also revealed that 70 per cent of sharks, which are not covered under the MLS, caught along Kerala coast are below the breeding size.

A significant decline in consumption patterns among fishermen in Kerala post-COVID-19 pandemic was also mentioned in the report.

The study indicated a reduction in expenditure on essential items such as food, clothing, rent, and education compared to pre-pandemic levels. Consumption dropped by 34 per cent in the Ernakulam district, followed by Alappuzha (13 per cent) and Malappuram (11 per cent).

Grinson George, Head of the Marine Biodiversity and Environment Management Division presided over the workshop. CMFRI's study was presented by Principal Scientist T M Najmudeen.