Studies on the effect of colour of webbing on the efficiency of gill nets for hilsa and pomfret off Veraval

Influence of colour of webbing on the catch of gill nets for commercially important hilsa (Hilsa toli and Hilsa ilisha) and pomfret (Pampus argenteus and Parastromateus niger) has been studied in the coastal waters off Veraval. Among the colours tested yellow and white are recommended for hilsa and pomfret gear. Influence of fishing depth, surface water temperature and turbidity on catch are also discussed.

Some fungal infestations of dried fishes in Cochin markets

Dried fish constitutes a regular item of trade in India, particularly in the interior parts far away from the sea and rivers. The poor section of the society is the main consumer. The quality of dried fish never receives much attention at any stage of processing (drying) and storage. A good amount of these fish is discarded during drying due to fungal growth to avoid the danger of mycotoxin production. A survey of the dried fish from the Cochin markets had revealed that they do carry fungal infestations and their chances of mycotoxin production cannot be ruled out as the strains of Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus ochraceus and Fusarium spp. have been isolated.

Pesticide residues in marine fishes

Pesticide residues in four marine fishes, black pomfret (Parastromateus niger), mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta), marine vala (Chirocentrus sp.) and tuna (Euthynnus affinis) are reported. Highest concentration is found in black pomfret followed by tuna, vala and mackerel. The contents of various pesticides present in fish under study are well below the action level prepared by FDA to cause any health hazard.

A pre-impoundment study of swamps in the Kainji Lake Basin

This paper gives an account of the wet season swamps in the River Niger valley within tbe area now submerged by the Kainji Lake. Their ecology was studied with respect to the soils, plant cover, water chemistry and plankton concentrations. Their value to the fishery in the river basin was discussed.