Journal of Fisheries and Life Sciences

Author(s): Indulkar S T and A S Ninawe

Abstract: The paper deals with the traditional method adopted for collection of freshwater prawn juveniles by the local tribal fishermen “Katkari” by employing indigenous cylindrical bamboo traps, commonly known as ‘dhodali’ at a Kalu river near a pilgrimage town, Titwala in district Thane (MS). The river Kalu originates from the water sheds of Sahyadri ranges within the same district. This river and its associated water bodies are impregnated with a variety of freshwater prawn juveniles, fishes and other aquatic life forms, which constitute a suitable part of the food of local tribal fishermen and enhance livelihood of the said community as there is a change in the utilization of live prawn juveniles for aquaculture purpose. Four species of Macrobrachium were recorded from the habitat with dominance of M. rosenbergii. This prawn species has great importance in the aquaculture industry. Every year, season of juvenile collection last for 75 to 90 days depending upon total monsoon period at the natural habitat.