Question

Which of the following groups form dominant fishery along the northwest coast?
A. Bombay duck
B. White baits
C. Non-penaeid prawns
D. Lesser sardines
E. Golden anchovy
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B and E only
• B. A, C and E only
• C. A, C and D only
• D. B, C and D only

Hint:

For the NW coast (Maharashtra/Gujarat), always remember the "Big Three": Bombay Duck (Harpadon), Non-penaeids (Acetes), and Golden Anchovy (Coilia). They are often caught together in the traditional "Dol" net.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify the specific groups of fishes and crustaceans that constitute the dominant portion of the commercial fisheries along the North-West (NW) coast of India, which primarily includes the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat.
Detailed Explanation:

• Fishery of the North-West Coast: The NW coast of India is characterized by a wide continental shelf and high productivity. The catch composition here is distinct from the South-West or South-East coasts.

• Bombay Duck (A): Harpadon nehereus, popularly known as the Bombay duck, is a flagship species for the NW coast. It accounts for a massive chunk of the landings in Maharashtra and Gujarat and is traditionally caught using "Dol" nets (stationary bag nets).

• Non-penaeid Prawns (C): This group primarily consists of tiny prawns belonging to the genus Acetes, as well as Nematopalaemon tenuipes and Exhippolysmata ensirostris. They are extremely abundant in the coastal waters of the NW coast and are a staple of the local fishery and processing industry.

• Golden Anchovy (E): Coilia dussumieri, often referred to as the golden anchovy, is another major pelagic resource specific to the NW coast. It is often caught alongside Bombay duck and non-penaeid prawns in dol nets and trawls.

• Analysis of other options: White baits (Engraulids like Stolephorus) and Lesser sardines (Sardinella spp.) are more dominant along the South-West and South-East coasts respectively.

Step 2: Final Answer:
The dominant fishery groups along the northwest coast are Bombay duck, Non-penaeid prawns, and Golden anchovy. This corresponds to the combination of A, C, and E.