Assessment of clam resources in the estuaries of Dakshina Kannada

Abstract

Clam resources in all the eight estuaries of Dakshina Kannada, viz., the Nethravathi, Gurpur, Mulky, Udyavara, Swirna, SIti, Coondapoor and Uppunda were assessed during 1984. The total clam resources 'standing stock) of these estuaries are estimated at 4900 t. About 92% of this resource was found in the Mulky estuary. The clam resources were negligible and formed less than 1% in the Udyavara, Swarna, Siti, Coondapoor and Uppunda. Meratrix casta js the chief species followed by Paphia malabarica and Villorita cyprinoides. Species-wise distribution of clams in different estuaries along with the environmental parameters and biological characteristics of different clam species are presented. Information on the utilisation and marketing is also given.