Home / Environment / Goa's Mud Crabs Get Breeding Protection
Goa's Mud Crabs Get Breeding Protection
4 Sep
Summary
- Goa proposes conservation framework for berried female mud crabs.
- Fishermen to receive incentives for releasing breeding crabs alive.
- Proposed crab reserves aim to protect estuarine breeding grounds.
Goa is advancing a new conservation framework to protect berried female mud crabs, crucial for the region's estuarine ecosystem and fishing economy. ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CCARI) has submitted a proposal to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, which includes incentives for fishermen who release breeding crabs and the creation of dedicated crab reserves.
The proposed scheme aims to reward fishermen for releasing berried crabs, with verification facilitated by a mobile application. This measure targets the vulnerability of mature females as they migrate to coastal waters to spawn. A minimum carapace width of 15cm is also suggested to ensure females are mature enough to breed.
ICAR-CCARI is also proposing the establishment of mud crab reserves in estuarine areas, potentially including the mangrove-rich Chorao Island vicinity. These reserves would restrict or prohibit fishing to allow for natural breeding. The institute will provide technical support, while the fisheries department will oversee implementation.
