Juvenile fish harvesting raises concerns along Malabar coast

Surveillance is yet to be strengthened at various harbours in Kozhikode district to curb the harvesting and sale of juvenile fish. | Photo Credit: K. Ragesh

The growing practice of large-scale harvesting of undersized fish along the Malabar coast has raised concerns about the sustainability of marine resources and the livelihoods of traditional fishing communities, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement of minimum legal size (MLS) regulations.

Fishermen from the coastal areas of Kozhikode district say juvenile fish varieties are reportedly being caught in large quantities and transported to other States for industrial use, including the manufacture of fishmeal, fish oil, fish powder, and fertilisers. The growing demand for such stocks is prompting many to supply the stock, triggering concerns about the possible depletion of fish populations and its long-term impact on the fishing sector, they point out.

Major fishing centres, including Chaliyam, Koyilandy, Chombala, and Vellayil in Kozhikode, are among the locations reportedly affected. There are no permanent checking mechanisms in these locations, though the Marine Enforcement squad conducts occasional inspections.