Can the CMFRI-CIFT Collaborative Study Unlock Deep-Sea Resources?
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Synopsis
India's marine fisheries sector takes a giant leap with a collaborative pilot study aimed at tapping into the untapped mesopelagic resources within its Exclusive Economic Zone. This initiative could redefine sustainability in marine resource management.
Key Takeaways
- Collaborative research between CMFRI and CIFT.
- Focus on mesopelagic resources within the Exclusive Economic Zone.
- Potential exploitation of around 2 million tons of resources.
- Development of sustainable fishing methods.
- Significant industrial applications for fishmeal and nutraceuticals.
Kochi, May 9 (NationPress) In a significant advancement for the nation's marine fisheries sector, a collaborative pilot study has been initiated to investigate the potential of exploiting mesopelagic resources within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
This research is led by ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research (CMFRI) in partnership with ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT), funded by the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
This pilot project involves both fishermen and commercial trawlers to assess the untapped potential of mesopelagic resources.
The findings of this research will evaluate the viability of large-scale resource exploitation.
Mesopelagic resources (found at depths of 200-1000 meters), which include myctophids, represent some of the most abundant yet underutilized fish resources globally.
This research gains even more importance due to their substantial industrial applications for fishmeal, nutraceuticals, and bioactive compounds.
According to CMFRI Director, Dr. Grinson George, with escalating global concerns over overfishing of commercially vital species used in fishmeal production, this initiative seeks to explore alternative and sustainable sources, thereby reducing reliance on traditional fish stocks.
"The project scientists believe that tapping into mesopelagic species can alleviate pressure on coastal and pelagic fisheries, promoting a more balanced approach to marine resource management. The collaborative effort includes estimating harvestable potential, developing sustainable harvesting techniques, exploring value-added applications, and assessing the feasibility of commercial exploitation while ensuring ecological sustainability," he stated.
A rough estimation indicates that approximately 2 million tons of mesopelagic resources exist in Indian waters.
Addressing the challenges of this study, he mentioned that CMFRI is dedicated to providing scientific insights into the distribution, biology, and stock assessment of these resources.
"Collaborative efforts with CIFT will facilitate the creation of effective harvesting technologies and post-harvest processing methods," he added, highlighting that this initiative is a substantial milestone for India's marine fisheries aimed at achieving a Viksit Bharat.
CIFT Director, Dr. George Ninan, stressed the considerable industrial value of these resources, noting they are crucial for industries in many countries, including Oman.
"The conclusion of this year-long pilot study will provide essential insights to determine the most viable methods for utilizing these resources," he concluded.
Point of View
I see this collaborative effort between CMFRI and CIFT as a significant step towards enhancing India's marine fisheries. With rising global concerns about overfishing, exploring alternative resources like mesopelagic species is crucial. This initiative not only aims to promote sustainability but also potentially bolsters the fishing industry, ensuring ecological balance and economic growth.
NationPress
21/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the CMFRI-CIFT pilot study?
The pilot study aims to explore and assess the untapped mesopelagic resources within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to evaluate their viability for large-scale exploitation.
Who is funding this research?
The study is funded by the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
What are mesopelagic resources?
Mesopelagic resources are fish species found at depths of 200-1000 meters, which include myctophids, and are among the most abundant yet underexploited fish resources globally.
What is the estimated potential of mesopelagic resources in Indian waters?
It is estimated that around 2 million tons of mesopelagic resources are available in Indian waters.
How will this research impact sustainable fishing practices?
The research aims to develop sustainable harvesting methods and reduce pressure on traditional fish stocks, promoting a more balanced approach to marine resource management.
