Larval Migration and growth of Marine Prawns in the Estuarine Habitat

Abstract

Larval migration and growth of @iMetapenaeus dobsoni, M. monoceros, M. affinis@@ and @iPenaeus merguiensis@@ were studied in the Mandovi Estuary and a nearby mangrove swamps for one year. In general, total number of larvae were more during the post-monsoon season (56.3%). The lower reaches of the estuary sustained the maximum density (73.2%). All species except @iM. affinis@@ had an initial growth in the mangrove swamp and a later stay in the estuary before finally migrating back to the sea. @iM. affinis@@, on the other hand, was observed to grow mostly in the estuary. The sizes at which such active emigration occurs varies with species and habitat