Some aspects of the fishery of the threatened yellow catfish Horabagrus brachysoma from Vembanad lake with a note on their landings at Vaikom, Kerala, India

Abstract

The landings of the endangered bagrid catfish Horabagrus brachysoma from three selected markets along Vembanad Lake, Kerala was quantified at 6744kg during October 2003 - September 2004, with the greatest share (51%) from Koluthumkadavu market of Vaikom. A considerable portion of the exploited stock consisted of individuals in the size ranges of 180-280mm TL in the case of males and 160-300mm TL in the case of females. Seasonal variations in landings have been discussed and an appraisal of the fishing techniques for H. brachysoma in the lake ecosystem has been presented. © ZOO.