Distribution of finfish resources along southeast coast of India in relation to certain environmental parameters

This paper embodies the distribution pattern of major finfish resources along the \nsoutheast coast of India as observed during the cruises operated by FORV Sagar \nSampada. A total of 16 cruises (1985-90) operated along latitude 7° 15'- 15°00' N \nand longitude 75°50'- 82°3r E hauled a total catch 37.5 tonnes with a catch rate of \n537 kg/hr. The catch was constituted mainly by threadfin breams (43%), perches \n(14%), barracudas (9.72%), carangids (8.56%) and elasmobranchs (4.81%). Seasonally \nhigher catch rates were obtained during July- September period. Depth range of \n60 - 80 m had denser population of finfish resources. Water temperature and salinity \nappeared to influence the distribution of major finfishes more than dissolved oxygen. \nGroups such as threadfin breams were found preferring cooler waters of Wadge Bank \narea, while barracudas appear to occupy warmer waters of Gulf of Mannar.