Small scale shrimp dragnets in Andhra Pradesh: Fishery performance and impact assessment

Divipala, Indira and Manas, H M and Rao, Gauri Sankara and Muktha, M and Kodi, Srinivasa Rao and Nagaraju, P and Rao, Subba V and Mamidi, Satishkumar and Jasmin, F and Behera, Pralaya Ranjan and Venkateswarlu, V and Kizhakudan, Joe K (2026) Small scale shrimp dragnets in Andhra Pradesh: Fishery performance and impact assessment. Indian Journal of Fisheries, 73 (3). pp. 56-64. ISSN 0970-6011

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Abstract

Small-scale shrimp dragnet (Royyala vala) fishery has emerged as a significant artisanal fishery targeting Metapenaeus dobsoni (Miers, 1878) in the nearshore waters of Andhra Pradesh. This study assessed dragnet operations across three coastal districts from June to August 2025 through structured fisher interviews, catch sampling, and biological studies to understand both fishery performance and ecological implications. Distinct regional patterns emerged, with Vizianagaram recording the highest catch per unit effort (CPUE, 0.08 t boat⁻¹ day⁻¹) during the south-west monsoon season, whereas year-round operations of the Prakasam District yielded lower rates (0.04 t boat⁻¹ day⁻¹), indicating continuous exploitation pressure without seasonal recovery. Biological observations revealed growth parameters consistent with reported values for the species, including a growth exponent (b) of 2.9, indicating near-isometric growth, and a mean condition factor (Fulton's K) of approximately 1.2. A substantial proportion of captured females were in advanced maturation or ripe stages at the time of capture, raising concerns that the sustained removal of pre-spawning individuals may affect future recruitment if the fishery is not managed. The bycatch of juvenile finfish and nontarget species, combined with benthic habitat disturbance from bottom-contact gear operations, may have adverse effects on the ecosystem. The declining CPUE trend from north to south, coupled with fisher-reported declines in recent years, indicates emerging resource stress. Management interventions are needed, including mesh size regulations (minimum 16–18 mm codend mesh), seasonal closures aligned with spawning cycles, and spatial restrictions near nursery areas. Community-based comanagement is essential for compliance and long-term viability. This first comprehensive assessment of the shrimp dragnet fishery of Andhra Pradesh revealed both its socioeconomic importance and the urgent need for balanced management to safeguard M. dobsoni resources as well as coastal ecosystems.

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