Role of Godavari mangroves (India) in the production and survival of prawn larvae
In: Hydrobiologia. Springer: The Hague. ISSN 0018-8158; e-ISSN 1573-5117, more
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| Author keywords |
mangroves; east coast of India; Penaeus sp.; stable carbon isotoperatios; nurseries |
| Authors | | Top |
- Chandramohan, P.
- Rao, R.G.
- Dehairs, F.A., more
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| Abstract |
The Godavari estuarine system extending over approximately 316 km(2) has significant annual variation of salinity due to seasonal flooding which is mainly monsoon fed. This area has dense vegetation of mangroves and is characterised by predominance of Avicennia sp. Excoecaria agallocha and Rhizophora sp. In the coastal waters adjacent to the mangroves three economically important species of prawns occur (Penaeus monadon, P. indicus and Metapenaeus monoceras). Their larvae migrate and dwell in the mangrove environment. By analysis for the natural stable carbon isotope ratios, it was possible to establish the primary carbon source from the mangroves to that of larvae and juveniles of P. indicus and P. monodon. This information can be used to exploit the mangrove habitat as prawn nurseries. |
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