Preliminary observation on the sustainability of white sardine, Escualosa thoracata (Valenciennes, 1847), exploited from the central west coast of India

Abstract Background The present study assessed the growth and mortality parameters of white sardine, Escualosa thoracata which is having high local demand. sardine gained importance due to its taste, demand in domestic markets as compared oil necessitated a on this resource know status exploitation level along central west coast India. Results A total 3026 individuals different size groups E. were randomly collected from Burondi fish landing center Ratnagiri district Maharashtra. asymptotic length ( L ∞ ) coefficient K estimated be 115 mm 1.9 year −1 , respectively, by ELEFAN-I 135 1.2 scattergram. value t 0 von Bertalanffy plot was −0.000012 year. attained 65 mm, 94 114 at end 0.5, 1, 1.5 years life, respectively. instantaneous rate Z ), natural M fishing F 8.07 2.55 5.52 U calculated 0.65, ratio E 0.68. Conclusion growth, mortality, other population observed will help understand current stock status, pointing toward over-fishing condition ˃ 0.50) area. Therefore, investigation suggests reducing pressure India for sustainability resource.