On the occurrence of Decapterus macrosoma in trawlcatches at fisheries harbour, Cochin

The scads (Decapterus spp.) locally known as 'Thiriyan' forms an important carangid fishery in 'trawls' at Fisheries Harbour, Cochin contributing about 45.09 and 60.67 % of the carangids caught in trawls during 1987 and 1988 respectively. D. macrosoma contributed upto 50% of the catches with the maximum catch per effort of 44.50 kg. This species represented by an abundant catch of juveniles and sub adults also contributing upto an estimated catch of 2,941 kg (catch/effort: 17 kg).