Field visit to coastal aquaculture farms along Kuppam River, Kannur

A field visit was organised to the five coastal aquaculture farms covering 15 ha area along the Kuppam River, Kannur coastal district, Kerala during 17-18 August 2024. The farmers operate farming of pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei and also of brackishwater fish species such as pearlspot and grey mullet. The advisories given were mainly focused to prevent the crop loss during the unfavourable environmental conditions such as heavy rains and the dry summer. The recent death of shrimp in the farm ponds was investigated and the decline in alkalinity of the pond water was identified as the cause of death (<50 mg L^-1). Couple of advisories was given to sustain productivity and profitability like harvest of the current stock to avoid further crop loss, application of alkalinity inducing agents to bring the alkalinity > 75 mg L^-1 and lining of the ponds with silpaulin sheets to maintain and regulate the water quality. The farmers profusely appreciated the passionate efforts of team ICAR-CCARI, Goa for providing technical backstopping to the farmers at field level. Farmers also expressed interest in cultivation of turmeric and tapioca in the interspace available and on pond bunds for generating additional production and income. Dr Sreekanth GB, Shri Trivesh Mayekar- Scientist (Fish genetics and breeding) and Mr. Melbin Lal (YP 2) coordinated the filed visit.