Murugan Arumugam - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Murugan Arumugam

Research paper thumbnail of Hippocampus kuda (Bleeker, 1852) Authors

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of lobster resources along Kanyakumari (Southeast coast of India)Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (1)

Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of New distributional record of the Ward's sleeper goby, Valenciennea wardii (Playfair, 1867) (Perciformes: Gobiidae) from Indian waters

Cybium, 2024

nouveau signalement de répartition du gobie dormeur de Ward, Valenciennea wardii (Playfair, 1867)... more nouveau signalement de répartition du gobie dormeur de Ward, Valenciennea wardii (Playfair, 1867) (Perciformes : gobiidae) dans les eaux indiennes. le gobie dormeur de Ward, Valenciennea wardii (Playflair, 1867), était précédemment connu de diverses localités le long de l'océan indo-Pacifique, de la Tanzanie à la Papouasie nouvelleguinée, incluant les îles andaman, l'australie, le Japon, la Chine, les Maldives, les Philippines, les Seychelles, le Soudan, Taïwan, la Thaïlande, le vietnam, Zanzibar, la mer Rouge, le Soudan et les côtes ouest de l'australie. un unique individu avec une longueur standard (lS) de 62,3 mm a été collecté comme capture accessoire à Mudasalodai, Tamil nadu, côtes sud-est de l'inde, pendant les mois d'avril à juillet 2022. Ce nouveau signalement étend la répartition de cette espèce aux eaux indiennes. Ce gobie est plus ou moins commun localement sur les fonds meubles proches ou éloignés des récifs coraliens, plus particulièrement le long des herbiers des fonds sablonneux ou vaseux.

Research paper thumbnail of First Record of the Spiny Waspfish, Ablabys macracanthus (Bleeker, 1852; Scorpaeniformes: Synanceiidae) from Indian Coastal Waters

Thalassus, 2024

(iii) an elongated and laterally compressed body, (iv) a small mouth, (v)small embedded cycloid b... more (iii) an elongated and laterally compressed body, (iv) a small mouth, (v)small embedded cycloid body scales, and (vi)the first dorsal-fin spine inserted anterior to or above the anterior margin of the orbit (Chungthanawong and Motomura 2018). In the revisionary study by Chungthanawong and Motomura (2018), five distinct Indo-West Pacific species of Ablabys were recognized; Redskin-fish A. binotatus (Peters, 1855)

Research paper thumbnail of New Distributional Record of the Short-Snouted Scorpionfish, Scorpaenopsis obtusa (Scorpaeniformes: Scorpaenidae), from Indian Coastal Waters

Journal of Icthyology, 2023

A new record of the Short-snouted scorpionfish, Scorpaenopsis obtusa Randall et Eschmeyer, 2002 i... more A new record of the Short-snouted scorpionfish, Scorpaenopsis obtusa Randall et Eschmeyer, 2002 is reported from India's southeast coast. Three specimens were collected (67.6-75.1 mm SL) as trawl-fishery bycatch at Tuticorin fishing harbour, India on 21 April 2022. Morphometric and meristic characters were measured and compared with published data. The record of this species from India expands the known distribution of S. obtusa, previously reported from Myanmar eastward. The above species is a new addition to the list of marine fishes of Indian coastal waters.

Research paper thumbnail of Resolution of the identity of the goby Glossogobius mas Hora, 1923 (Perciformes: Gobiidae) described from Chilka Lake, Odisha, India

Research paper thumbnail of First record of the speckled Maori wrasse, Oxycheilinus arenatus (Valenciennes, 1840) (Actinopterygii: Perciformes: Labridae), from Indian coastal waters

Acta Ichthyologica et Piscatoria, 2022

The labrid fish species Oxycheilinus arenatus (Valenciennes, 1840) is recorded for the first time... more The labrid fish species Oxycheilinus arenatus (Valenciennes, 1840) is recorded for the first time from India's southeast coast. A total of three specimens were collected as trawl bycatch at Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, southeast coast of India, in December 2021. The standard length of the specimens ranged from 15.42 to 19.5 cm SL. The presently reported finding of this species from the southeastern coast of India expands and confirms the known distribution range of O. arenatus, which was previously not known from India.

Research paper thumbnail of Redescription of a rare cusk eel, Pycnocraspedum squamipinne (Actinopterygii, Ophidiiformes, Ophidiidae), from Bay of Bengal

Acta Ichthyologica et Piscatoria, 2021

Pycnocraspedum squamipinne Alcock, 1889 is a rare species of pelagic cusk eel described from spec... more Pycnocraspedum squamipinne Alcock, 1889 is a rare species of pelagic cusk eel described from specimens collected off the Bay of Bengal. The descriptive literature on P. squamipinne is limited to the original description owing to the rarity in collections. The genus and the species need a thorough revision to identify specific characters of taxonomic importance as the descriptive information regarding the species in the genus Pycnocraspedum is limited to the holotypes and syntypes. Fifteen fresh specimens of P. squamipinne were collected from the Chennai coast, Tamil Nadu, Bay of Bengal region. The syntypes of P. squamipinne (ZSI F 11700 and ZSI F 11703) available at the Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata were examined. The morphometric and meristic characters of P. squamipinne were compared with those of syntypes and other species of the genus. Molecular analysis was carried out using partial mtDNA cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene (COI). The specimen is deposited in the national fish repository of the ICAR, National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow, India. A detailed redescription of P. squamipinne based on the syntypes and fifteen recently collected specimens are provided. A detailed comparison with other species of the genus is also provided which helps in establishing the taxonomic identity of P. squamipinne. Molecular information was generated which would help in the species identification of this rare deep-sea species. This study provides morphological and molecular information of the rare cusk eel, P. squamipinne, which would help in the precise identification of the species. However, due to paucity, the majority of species of the genus are still only known from single specimens and comprehensive examination of holotypes and intensive sampling is needed to better understand the species identity and distribution.

Research paper thumbnail of Length-weight relationship of the endemic velvet leatherjacket, Lalmohania velutina (Hutchins, 1994) inhabiting Gulf of Mannar waters (southeast coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2020

Length-weight relationship (LWR) of an endemic fish, velvet leatherjacket, Lalmohania velutina (H... more Length-weight relationship (LWR) of an endemic fish, velvet leatherjacket, Lalmohania velutina (Hutchins, 1994) inhabiting Gulf of Mannar (GoM), southeast coast of India was determined during the present study. A total of 131 individuals (male n = 84; females n = 47) were collected from bycatch of shore seines in GoM and used for establishing LWR of this endemic species. The calculated value for parameter 'b' of LWRs were 2.5189, 2.6174 and 2.5614 for male, female and for total individuals (pooled), respectively. Maximum total length (TL) recorded for a female individual (TL max = 13.4 cm) is the new report of maximum TL in L. velutina. The present study is the first reference on the length-weight relationship and the new maximum length recorded for L. velutina.

Research paper thumbnail of Status, structure and environmental variations in semi-arid mangroves of India

Journal of Forestry Research, 2020

The semi-arid mangroves of the Gulf of Kachchh, the largest ecosystems on the west coast of India... more The semi-arid mangroves of the Gulf of Kachchh, the largest ecosystems on the west coast of India, are poorly studied in terms of vegetation structure and environmental parameters in spite of their conservation significance. Therefore, it is necessary to document the structural features of these mangroves in view of ongoing coastal industrial development. Mangrove forest structure in 10 locations on the northern and southern coasts of the Gulf of Kachchh were assessed using the line intercept transect method. Descriptions included density of young and mature age classes, tree heights, diameters at breast height (DBH) and aboveground biomass, along with seven significant environmental variables. Mature tree densities ranged from 350 to 1567 ind. ha-1 , while average height and girth at breast height ranged from 1.0 to 6.8 m and 3.0 to 137.0 cm, respectively. The majority of trees (55.6%) were in B 1.8 m height class followed by a 1.9 to 2.4 m class (25.1%). DBH was most often in class 2 cm or lower than that. Among the canopy index classes, more trees were recorded in class B 2 cm. The regeneration density was greater than the recruitment class. This study indicates that the poor structural attributes of Avicennia marina Vierth. var. acutissima Stapf and Mold dominated mangroves are largely due to aridity induced by scarce and erratic rainfall and high soil and water salinities. The results should be valuable in conserving and sustainably managing these mangroves in the face of developmental activities.

Research paper thumbnail of Morphological observations on the endemic Velvet leatherjacket, Lalmohania velutina Hutchins, 1994 (Family: Monacanthidae) and updated distributional records after three decades from its discovery in Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu Coast, India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2018

The present study pertains to the occurrence of the fish commonly known as the velvet leatherjack... more The present study pertains to the occurrence of the fish commonly known as the velvet leatherjacket, Lalmohania velutina with extended distributional records that update its original scientific description. This paper delineates the morphological, genital and skeletal observations recorded of L. velutina based on 12 specimens collected from multiple fishing sites, from shore seine fishing operations practiced along the southeast coast of India. Group-wise (distribution, sex and type specimens) statistical analysis revealed that the specimens collected from the Palk Bay region are larger than the Gulf of Mannar specimens. Morphological, gonadal and skeletal examination of the collected specimens attest to these features proved its idiosyncrasy.

Research paper thumbnail of Occurrence and characteristics of the brown-spotted spine foot, Siganus stellatus (Forsskål, 1775) from Gulf of Mannar, Southeast coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2018

The present paper reports the occurrence of the fish, brown-spotted spinefoot, Siganus stellatus ... more The present paper reports the occurrence of the fish, brown-spotted spinefoot, Siganus stellatus (Forsskal, 1775) from Gulf of Mannar waters, caught from the bottom set gillnet locally called as "maya valai' normally deployed in reefs and over a rocky substratum. A description of the observed specimen and their morphometric differences from their congeners is provided.

Research paper thumbnail of Current Science 17

Current Science, 2017

The present study provides information on weightlength relationship (WLR) and Fulton's condition ... more The present study provides information on weightlength relationship (WLR) and Fulton's condition factor (K) of the alligator pipefish, Syngnathoides biaculeatus (Bloch, 1785) sampled from Palk Bay (PB) and Gulf of Mannar (GoM) regions, southeast coast of India. The pooled estimate for the parameter b of the WLR for S. biaculeatus (n = 217) was determined to be 1.75, indicating the negative allometric growth pattern (b < 3). The K values ranged from 0.65 to 1.35 (pooled, 0.84) and from 0.68 to 1.27 (pooled, 0.85) for populations of S. biaculeatus collected from PB (n = 120) and GoM (n = 97) respectively. The results may help address the concerns of conservation of S. biaculeatus in the wake of habitat loss and/or incidental by-catch.

Research paper thumbnail of Captive breeding and rearing of the yellow seahorse, Hippocampus kuda (Bleeker, 1852) in support of the marine ornamental fish industry and conservation

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2017

H. kuda attained a maximum size of 138 mm (Ht) (mean 124.04±11.3 mm) and maximum weight of 7621 m... more H. kuda attained a maximum size of 138 mm (Ht) (mean 124.04±11.3 mm) and maximum weight of 7621 mg (mean 6904±1115.35 mg) during the culture period of six months. Overall, a survival rate of 76.28% was recorded during a culture period of six months. Development of brood pouch was first observed in 120 DAB (days after birth) old male seahorses (105 mm, Ht), while dropping of egg clutch in female seahorses was recorded on 139 DAB (109 mm, Ht). Inter-mating duration of seahorses in the F 1 generation varied between 16 and 43 days and the number of young ones released ranged from 32 to 169. Gestation period varied between 12 and 15 days at a rearing water temperature of 28 °C. Within 4 months of captive rearing, H. kuda attained a size of 100 mm (Ht) which is the minimum size limit recommended for sustainable seahorse trade.

Research paper thumbnail of Length -Weight Relationship of the Great seahorse, Hippocampus kelloggi (Jordan and Snyder 1902), inhabiting Coromandel Coast, Southeast coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2017

In this paper we report the Length-Weight Relationship (LWR) of Hippocampus kelloggi inhabiting C... more In this paper we report the Length-Weight Relationship (LWR) of Hippocampus kelloggi inhabiting Coromandel Coast. Sampling period was from October, 2000 to September, 2001. Overall 537 individuals were sampled and all of them were caught from the bottom trawl nets. Sample size ranged from 55mm to 302 mm and the estimated b value was 2.7, 2.5 and 2 for males, females and juveniles respectively. The results indicate a negative allometric growth rate. Analysis of co-variance suggest that between the regression equation obtained for males and females no significant difference (P <0.01) was observed. The results presented in this study provides a baseline information on the LWR of H.kelloggi, a biological data deficient fish from Indian waters. The biological information obtained will help policy makers to prepare the much important management plan and conservation strategies for H. kelloggi or seahorses for Indian waters in near future.

Research paper thumbnail of Length weight relationship of cobia, Rachycentron canadum from hook and line fishery at Gulf of Mannar region, South East Coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2017

Length weight relationship of Rachycentron canadum landed by hook and line fishery in Gulf of Man... more Length weight relationship of Rachycentron canadum landed by hook and line fishery in Gulf of Mannar coast during February 2010 to March 2012 was estimated. A total of 330 fishes were examined from hook and line fishery consisting of 130 males and 170 females. Total Length (TL) for males ranged between 53 and 144 cm with a mean length of 98.12 ±22.87 cm, and the weight ranged from 1 to 31 kg with a mean of 11.15±7.73kg. In the case of female the Total length observed was between 43 and 148.1 cm with a mean length of 95.84±24.11 cm and the weight observed was between 0.25 to 35.2 kg with a mean weight of 10.37 ± 8.38 kg. This present study suggests that the values of the slope b were 3.12 and 3.36 for male and female cobia respectively which showed positive allometric growth rate (b>3), suggesting that they are fast growing fishes.

Research paper thumbnail of Age and growth of squirrel fish, Sargocentron rubrum, (Forsskal, 1775) from Cuddalore waters, Southeast coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2016

Age and growth of the squirrelfish, Sargocentron rubrum was determined based on the length freque... more Age and growth of the squirrelfish, Sargocentron rubrum was determined based on the length frequency data collected from Cuddalore waters, southeast coast of India. Biological information was recorded from 1128 individuals, which includes 464 males and 664 females. Length data were analyzed using the FiSAT software package that is mainly used for determining the age through indirect method (Mathematical calculation). Significant differences could be noticed between sexes in terms of length at age and estimated parameters that portrayed males growing larger than females (P<0.05). Estimated parameters of the von Bertalanffy growth function for the pooled data was Lt=24.43cmTL [1-exp (-1.18year-1 (t-0.1417)] for males and Lt=23.63cmTL [1-exp (-1.15 year-1 (t-0.1468)] for females.

Research paper thumbnail of Length weight relationship of cobia, Rachycentron canadum from hook and line fishery at Gulf of Mannar region, South East Coast of India

Length weight relationship of Rachycentron canadum landed by hook and line fishery in Gulf of Man... more Length weight relationship of Rachycentron canadum landed by hook and line fishery in Gulf of Mannar coast during February 2010 to March 2012 was estimated. A total of 330 fishes were examined from hook and line fishery consisting of 130 males and 170 females. Total Length (TL) for males ranged between 53 and 144 cm with a mean length of 98.12 ±22.87 cm, and the weight ranged from 1 to 31 kg with a mean of 11.15±7.73kg. In the case of female the Total length observed was between 43 and 148.1 cm with a mean length of 95.84±24.11 cm and the weight observed was between 0.25 to 35.2 kg with a mean weight of 10.37 ± 8.38 kg. This present study suggests that the values of the slope b were 3.12 and 3.36 for male and female cobia respectively which showed positive allometric growth rate (b>3), suggesting that they are fast growing fishes.

Research paper thumbnail of Total phenolic content and in-vitro antioxidant activities from methanolic extract of alligator pipefish, Syngnathoides biaculeatus (Bloch, 1785

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2015

Alligator pipefish, Syngnathoides biaculeatus (Bloch, 1785) is one of the heavily traded and expe... more Alligator pipefish, Syngnathoides biaculeatus (Bloch, 1785) is one of the heavily traded and expensive ingredient in traditional Chinese medicines and there were no reports on its antioxidant activities. Total phenolic content (TPC) and in-vitro antioxidant activities in terms of reducing power (RP), metal chelating activity (MCA), 2,2 diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), inhibition of lipid peroxidation (LPX) and hydroxyl radical scavenging (HRS) activity were evaluated at extract concentrations ranging between 200 and 800 µg. Levels of TPC, RP, MCA, DPPH scavenging, FRAP, LPX and HRS activity measured was 19.81±1.10 to 64.04±0.45 mg gallic acid g-1 dried extract, from 0.16 to 0.31 Abs, from 6.20±0.21% to 29.33±1.73%, from 16.59±0.01 to 40.21±0.02%, from 75.46±0.90 to 167.25±0.41 mg ascorbic acid g-1 dried extract, from 54.59±1.5% to 84.28±3.5% and from 84.89±0.26 to 91.02±0.01%, respectively. Significant correlation (P<0.05) between TPC and other antioxidant properties confirm the antioxidant potential of S. biaculeatus. Results of this study would form a baseline information on the antioxidant potential of alligator pipefish.

Research paper thumbnail of Diversity, occurrence and socio-economic aspects of snappers and job fish (Family: Lutjanidae) fisheries from Gulf of Mannar region, south-east coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2014

and Amalinagar) along the Gulf of Mannar region to assess the diversity, catch rate of snappers a... more and Amalinagar) along the Gulf of Mannar region to assess the diversity, catch rate of snappers and job fishes caught in different fishing gears. A total of thirty species of fishes belonging to the family Lutjanidae (snappers and job fishes) were identified which belonged to five genera viz., Lutjanus, Pinjalo, Aphareus, Etelis and Pristipomoides. Highest species diversity was observed in the gear, coral reef fish trap (24 species), followed by hook and line (21 species). Principal Component Analysis revealed four typical groups based on the fish species caught from five different gears. Fishes caught in hook & line, shrimp trawl net and fish trawl net formed individual group, whereas coral reef fish trap and bottom set gill net together formed another group. Mean CPUE values for the observed fishing practices varied significantly and the value were higher in the Fish trawl net (107±33.5 kg/ fishing trip). Sharing pattern of the fishery resources among the crew members varied between fishing villages and fishing practices.

Research paper thumbnail of Hippocampus kuda (Bleeker, 1852) Authors

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of lobster resources along Kanyakumari (Southeast coast of India)Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (1)

Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of New distributional record of the Ward's sleeper goby, Valenciennea wardii (Playfair, 1867) (Perciformes: Gobiidae) from Indian waters

Cybium, 2024

nouveau signalement de répartition du gobie dormeur de Ward, Valenciennea wardii (Playfair, 1867)... more nouveau signalement de répartition du gobie dormeur de Ward, Valenciennea wardii (Playfair, 1867) (Perciformes : gobiidae) dans les eaux indiennes. le gobie dormeur de Ward, Valenciennea wardii (Playflair, 1867), était précédemment connu de diverses localités le long de l'océan indo-Pacifique, de la Tanzanie à la Papouasie nouvelleguinée, incluant les îles andaman, l'australie, le Japon, la Chine, les Maldives, les Philippines, les Seychelles, le Soudan, Taïwan, la Thaïlande, le vietnam, Zanzibar, la mer Rouge, le Soudan et les côtes ouest de l'australie. un unique individu avec une longueur standard (lS) de 62,3 mm a été collecté comme capture accessoire à Mudasalodai, Tamil nadu, côtes sud-est de l'inde, pendant les mois d'avril à juillet 2022. Ce nouveau signalement étend la répartition de cette espèce aux eaux indiennes. Ce gobie est plus ou moins commun localement sur les fonds meubles proches ou éloignés des récifs coraliens, plus particulièrement le long des herbiers des fonds sablonneux ou vaseux.

Research paper thumbnail of First Record of the Spiny Waspfish, Ablabys macracanthus (Bleeker, 1852; Scorpaeniformes: Synanceiidae) from Indian Coastal Waters

Thalassus, 2024

(iii) an elongated and laterally compressed body, (iv) a small mouth, (v)small embedded cycloid b... more (iii) an elongated and laterally compressed body, (iv) a small mouth, (v)small embedded cycloid body scales, and (vi)the first dorsal-fin spine inserted anterior to or above the anterior margin of the orbit (Chungthanawong and Motomura 2018). In the revisionary study by Chungthanawong and Motomura (2018), five distinct Indo-West Pacific species of Ablabys were recognized; Redskin-fish A. binotatus (Peters, 1855)

Research paper thumbnail of New Distributional Record of the Short-Snouted Scorpionfish, Scorpaenopsis obtusa (Scorpaeniformes: Scorpaenidae), from Indian Coastal Waters

Journal of Icthyology, 2023

A new record of the Short-snouted scorpionfish, Scorpaenopsis obtusa Randall et Eschmeyer, 2002 i... more A new record of the Short-snouted scorpionfish, Scorpaenopsis obtusa Randall et Eschmeyer, 2002 is reported from India's southeast coast. Three specimens were collected (67.6-75.1 mm SL) as trawl-fishery bycatch at Tuticorin fishing harbour, India on 21 April 2022. Morphometric and meristic characters were measured and compared with published data. The record of this species from India expands the known distribution of S. obtusa, previously reported from Myanmar eastward. The above species is a new addition to the list of marine fishes of Indian coastal waters.

Research paper thumbnail of Resolution of the identity of the goby Glossogobius mas Hora, 1923 (Perciformes: Gobiidae) described from Chilka Lake, Odisha, India

Research paper thumbnail of First record of the speckled Maori wrasse, Oxycheilinus arenatus (Valenciennes, 1840) (Actinopterygii: Perciformes: Labridae), from Indian coastal waters

Acta Ichthyologica et Piscatoria, 2022

The labrid fish species Oxycheilinus arenatus (Valenciennes, 1840) is recorded for the first time... more The labrid fish species Oxycheilinus arenatus (Valenciennes, 1840) is recorded for the first time from India's southeast coast. A total of three specimens were collected as trawl bycatch at Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, southeast coast of India, in December 2021. The standard length of the specimens ranged from 15.42 to 19.5 cm SL. The presently reported finding of this species from the southeastern coast of India expands and confirms the known distribution range of O. arenatus, which was previously not known from India.

Research paper thumbnail of Redescription of a rare cusk eel, Pycnocraspedum squamipinne (Actinopterygii, Ophidiiformes, Ophidiidae), from Bay of Bengal

Acta Ichthyologica et Piscatoria, 2021

Pycnocraspedum squamipinne Alcock, 1889 is a rare species of pelagic cusk eel described from spec... more Pycnocraspedum squamipinne Alcock, 1889 is a rare species of pelagic cusk eel described from specimens collected off the Bay of Bengal. The descriptive literature on P. squamipinne is limited to the original description owing to the rarity in collections. The genus and the species need a thorough revision to identify specific characters of taxonomic importance as the descriptive information regarding the species in the genus Pycnocraspedum is limited to the holotypes and syntypes. Fifteen fresh specimens of P. squamipinne were collected from the Chennai coast, Tamil Nadu, Bay of Bengal region. The syntypes of P. squamipinne (ZSI F 11700 and ZSI F 11703) available at the Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata were examined. The morphometric and meristic characters of P. squamipinne were compared with those of syntypes and other species of the genus. Molecular analysis was carried out using partial mtDNA cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene (COI). The specimen is deposited in the national fish repository of the ICAR, National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow, India. A detailed redescription of P. squamipinne based on the syntypes and fifteen recently collected specimens are provided. A detailed comparison with other species of the genus is also provided which helps in establishing the taxonomic identity of P. squamipinne. Molecular information was generated which would help in the species identification of this rare deep-sea species. This study provides morphological and molecular information of the rare cusk eel, P. squamipinne, which would help in the precise identification of the species. However, due to paucity, the majority of species of the genus are still only known from single specimens and comprehensive examination of holotypes and intensive sampling is needed to better understand the species identity and distribution.

Research paper thumbnail of Length-weight relationship of the endemic velvet leatherjacket, Lalmohania velutina (Hutchins, 1994) inhabiting Gulf of Mannar waters (southeast coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2020

Length-weight relationship (LWR) of an endemic fish, velvet leatherjacket, Lalmohania velutina (H... more Length-weight relationship (LWR) of an endemic fish, velvet leatherjacket, Lalmohania velutina (Hutchins, 1994) inhabiting Gulf of Mannar (GoM), southeast coast of India was determined during the present study. A total of 131 individuals (male n = 84; females n = 47) were collected from bycatch of shore seines in GoM and used for establishing LWR of this endemic species. The calculated value for parameter 'b' of LWRs were 2.5189, 2.6174 and 2.5614 for male, female and for total individuals (pooled), respectively. Maximum total length (TL) recorded for a female individual (TL max = 13.4 cm) is the new report of maximum TL in L. velutina. The present study is the first reference on the length-weight relationship and the new maximum length recorded for L. velutina.

Research paper thumbnail of Status, structure and environmental variations in semi-arid mangroves of India

Journal of Forestry Research, 2020

The semi-arid mangroves of the Gulf of Kachchh, the largest ecosystems on the west coast of India... more The semi-arid mangroves of the Gulf of Kachchh, the largest ecosystems on the west coast of India, are poorly studied in terms of vegetation structure and environmental parameters in spite of their conservation significance. Therefore, it is necessary to document the structural features of these mangroves in view of ongoing coastal industrial development. Mangrove forest structure in 10 locations on the northern and southern coasts of the Gulf of Kachchh were assessed using the line intercept transect method. Descriptions included density of young and mature age classes, tree heights, diameters at breast height (DBH) and aboveground biomass, along with seven significant environmental variables. Mature tree densities ranged from 350 to 1567 ind. ha-1 , while average height and girth at breast height ranged from 1.0 to 6.8 m and 3.0 to 137.0 cm, respectively. The majority of trees (55.6%) were in B 1.8 m height class followed by a 1.9 to 2.4 m class (25.1%). DBH was most often in class 2 cm or lower than that. Among the canopy index classes, more trees were recorded in class B 2 cm. The regeneration density was greater than the recruitment class. This study indicates that the poor structural attributes of Avicennia marina Vierth. var. acutissima Stapf and Mold dominated mangroves are largely due to aridity induced by scarce and erratic rainfall and high soil and water salinities. The results should be valuable in conserving and sustainably managing these mangroves in the face of developmental activities.

Research paper thumbnail of Morphological observations on the endemic Velvet leatherjacket, Lalmohania velutina Hutchins, 1994 (Family: Monacanthidae) and updated distributional records after three decades from its discovery in Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu Coast, India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2018

The present study pertains to the occurrence of the fish commonly known as the velvet leatherjack... more The present study pertains to the occurrence of the fish commonly known as the velvet leatherjacket, Lalmohania velutina with extended distributional records that update its original scientific description. This paper delineates the morphological, genital and skeletal observations recorded of L. velutina based on 12 specimens collected from multiple fishing sites, from shore seine fishing operations practiced along the southeast coast of India. Group-wise (distribution, sex and type specimens) statistical analysis revealed that the specimens collected from the Palk Bay region are larger than the Gulf of Mannar specimens. Morphological, gonadal and skeletal examination of the collected specimens attest to these features proved its idiosyncrasy.

Research paper thumbnail of Occurrence and characteristics of the brown-spotted spine foot, Siganus stellatus (Forsskål, 1775) from Gulf of Mannar, Southeast coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2018

The present paper reports the occurrence of the fish, brown-spotted spinefoot, Siganus stellatus ... more The present paper reports the occurrence of the fish, brown-spotted spinefoot, Siganus stellatus (Forsskal, 1775) from Gulf of Mannar waters, caught from the bottom set gillnet locally called as "maya valai' normally deployed in reefs and over a rocky substratum. A description of the observed specimen and their morphometric differences from their congeners is provided.

Research paper thumbnail of Current Science 17

Current Science, 2017

The present study provides information on weightlength relationship (WLR) and Fulton's condition ... more The present study provides information on weightlength relationship (WLR) and Fulton's condition factor (K) of the alligator pipefish, Syngnathoides biaculeatus (Bloch, 1785) sampled from Palk Bay (PB) and Gulf of Mannar (GoM) regions, southeast coast of India. The pooled estimate for the parameter b of the WLR for S. biaculeatus (n = 217) was determined to be 1.75, indicating the negative allometric growth pattern (b < 3). The K values ranged from 0.65 to 1.35 (pooled, 0.84) and from 0.68 to 1.27 (pooled, 0.85) for populations of S. biaculeatus collected from PB (n = 120) and GoM (n = 97) respectively. The results may help address the concerns of conservation of S. biaculeatus in the wake of habitat loss and/or incidental by-catch.

Research paper thumbnail of Captive breeding and rearing of the yellow seahorse, Hippocampus kuda (Bleeker, 1852) in support of the marine ornamental fish industry and conservation

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2017

H. kuda attained a maximum size of 138 mm (Ht) (mean 124.04±11.3 mm) and maximum weight of 7621 m... more H. kuda attained a maximum size of 138 mm (Ht) (mean 124.04±11.3 mm) and maximum weight of 7621 mg (mean 6904±1115.35 mg) during the culture period of six months. Overall, a survival rate of 76.28% was recorded during a culture period of six months. Development of brood pouch was first observed in 120 DAB (days after birth) old male seahorses (105 mm, Ht), while dropping of egg clutch in female seahorses was recorded on 139 DAB (109 mm, Ht). Inter-mating duration of seahorses in the F 1 generation varied between 16 and 43 days and the number of young ones released ranged from 32 to 169. Gestation period varied between 12 and 15 days at a rearing water temperature of 28 °C. Within 4 months of captive rearing, H. kuda attained a size of 100 mm (Ht) which is the minimum size limit recommended for sustainable seahorse trade.

Research paper thumbnail of Length -Weight Relationship of the Great seahorse, Hippocampus kelloggi (Jordan and Snyder 1902), inhabiting Coromandel Coast, Southeast coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2017

In this paper we report the Length-Weight Relationship (LWR) of Hippocampus kelloggi inhabiting C... more In this paper we report the Length-Weight Relationship (LWR) of Hippocampus kelloggi inhabiting Coromandel Coast. Sampling period was from October, 2000 to September, 2001. Overall 537 individuals were sampled and all of them were caught from the bottom trawl nets. Sample size ranged from 55mm to 302 mm and the estimated b value was 2.7, 2.5 and 2 for males, females and juveniles respectively. The results indicate a negative allometric growth rate. Analysis of co-variance suggest that between the regression equation obtained for males and females no significant difference (P <0.01) was observed. The results presented in this study provides a baseline information on the LWR of H.kelloggi, a biological data deficient fish from Indian waters. The biological information obtained will help policy makers to prepare the much important management plan and conservation strategies for H. kelloggi or seahorses for Indian waters in near future.

Research paper thumbnail of Length weight relationship of cobia, Rachycentron canadum from hook and line fishery at Gulf of Mannar region, South East Coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2017

Length weight relationship of Rachycentron canadum landed by hook and line fishery in Gulf of Man... more Length weight relationship of Rachycentron canadum landed by hook and line fishery in Gulf of Mannar coast during February 2010 to March 2012 was estimated. A total of 330 fishes were examined from hook and line fishery consisting of 130 males and 170 females. Total Length (TL) for males ranged between 53 and 144 cm with a mean length of 98.12 ±22.87 cm, and the weight ranged from 1 to 31 kg with a mean of 11.15±7.73kg. In the case of female the Total length observed was between 43 and 148.1 cm with a mean length of 95.84±24.11 cm and the weight observed was between 0.25 to 35.2 kg with a mean weight of 10.37 ± 8.38 kg. This present study suggests that the values of the slope b were 3.12 and 3.36 for male and female cobia respectively which showed positive allometric growth rate (b>3), suggesting that they are fast growing fishes.

Research paper thumbnail of Age and growth of squirrel fish, Sargocentron rubrum, (Forsskal, 1775) from Cuddalore waters, Southeast coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2016

Age and growth of the squirrelfish, Sargocentron rubrum was determined based on the length freque... more Age and growth of the squirrelfish, Sargocentron rubrum was determined based on the length frequency data collected from Cuddalore waters, southeast coast of India. Biological information was recorded from 1128 individuals, which includes 464 males and 664 females. Length data were analyzed using the FiSAT software package that is mainly used for determining the age through indirect method (Mathematical calculation). Significant differences could be noticed between sexes in terms of length at age and estimated parameters that portrayed males growing larger than females (P<0.05). Estimated parameters of the von Bertalanffy growth function for the pooled data was Lt=24.43cmTL [1-exp (-1.18year-1 (t-0.1417)] for males and Lt=23.63cmTL [1-exp (-1.15 year-1 (t-0.1468)] for females.

Research paper thumbnail of Length weight relationship of cobia, Rachycentron canadum from hook and line fishery at Gulf of Mannar region, South East Coast of India

Length weight relationship of Rachycentron canadum landed by hook and line fishery in Gulf of Man... more Length weight relationship of Rachycentron canadum landed by hook and line fishery in Gulf of Mannar coast during February 2010 to March 2012 was estimated. A total of 330 fishes were examined from hook and line fishery consisting of 130 males and 170 females. Total Length (TL) for males ranged between 53 and 144 cm with a mean length of 98.12 ±22.87 cm, and the weight ranged from 1 to 31 kg with a mean of 11.15±7.73kg. In the case of female the Total length observed was between 43 and 148.1 cm with a mean length of 95.84±24.11 cm and the weight observed was between 0.25 to 35.2 kg with a mean weight of 10.37 ± 8.38 kg. This present study suggests that the values of the slope b were 3.12 and 3.36 for male and female cobia respectively which showed positive allometric growth rate (b>3), suggesting that they are fast growing fishes.

Research paper thumbnail of Total phenolic content and in-vitro antioxidant activities from methanolic extract of alligator pipefish, Syngnathoides biaculeatus (Bloch, 1785

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2015

Alligator pipefish, Syngnathoides biaculeatus (Bloch, 1785) is one of the heavily traded and expe... more Alligator pipefish, Syngnathoides biaculeatus (Bloch, 1785) is one of the heavily traded and expensive ingredient in traditional Chinese medicines and there were no reports on its antioxidant activities. Total phenolic content (TPC) and in-vitro antioxidant activities in terms of reducing power (RP), metal chelating activity (MCA), 2,2 diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), inhibition of lipid peroxidation (LPX) and hydroxyl radical scavenging (HRS) activity were evaluated at extract concentrations ranging between 200 and 800 µg. Levels of TPC, RP, MCA, DPPH scavenging, FRAP, LPX and HRS activity measured was 19.81±1.10 to 64.04±0.45 mg gallic acid g-1 dried extract, from 0.16 to 0.31 Abs, from 6.20±0.21% to 29.33±1.73%, from 16.59±0.01 to 40.21±0.02%, from 75.46±0.90 to 167.25±0.41 mg ascorbic acid g-1 dried extract, from 54.59±1.5% to 84.28±3.5% and from 84.89±0.26 to 91.02±0.01%, respectively. Significant correlation (P<0.05) between TPC and other antioxidant properties confirm the antioxidant potential of S. biaculeatus. Results of this study would form a baseline information on the antioxidant potential of alligator pipefish.

Research paper thumbnail of Diversity, occurrence and socio-economic aspects of snappers and job fish (Family: Lutjanidae) fisheries from Gulf of Mannar region, south-east coast of India

Indian Journal of Geo Marine Sciences, 2014

and Amalinagar) along the Gulf of Mannar region to assess the diversity, catch rate of snappers a... more and Amalinagar) along the Gulf of Mannar region to assess the diversity, catch rate of snappers and job fishes caught in different fishing gears. A total of thirty species of fishes belonging to the family Lutjanidae (snappers and job fishes) were identified which belonged to five genera viz., Lutjanus, Pinjalo, Aphareus, Etelis and Pristipomoides. Highest species diversity was observed in the gear, coral reef fish trap (24 species), followed by hook and line (21 species). Principal Component Analysis revealed four typical groups based on the fish species caught from five different gears. Fishes caught in hook & line, shrimp trawl net and fish trawl net formed individual group, whereas coral reef fish trap and bottom set gill net together formed another group. Mean CPUE values for the observed fishing practices varied significantly and the value were higher in the Fish trawl net (107±33.5 kg/ fishing trip). Sharing pattern of the fishery resources among the crew members varied between fishing villages and fishing practices.