The diatom, Fragilaria oceanica Cleve, an indicator of abundance of the Indian oil sardine, Sardinella longiceps Cuv. and Val.

Abstract

The oil sardine fishery has contributed in no small measure to the economy of the fisherfolk of the West .Coast of India, and apart from its food value, the fish has sustained prosperous oil and guano industries for well over a century. ' The fishery, however, is subject tn extreme fluctuations and its continuous failure during the forEes extending over several years had disastrous consequences on the fishing industry.