In its efforts towards reviving declining bivalve resources, the ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has successfully achieved captive breeding of the mangrove clam (Geloina erosa). The scientific breakthrough opens up new possibilities for community-managed estuarine aquaculture integrated with mangrove conservation, offering a sustainable pathway for restoring this threatened species.

Mangrove clams, commonly known as mud clams, are an ecologically and economically important but rapidly dwindling resource in estuarine and mangrove ecosystems across South and Southeast Asia. Despite the sharp decline in natural stocks, the species continues to be a prized local delicacy in several parts of the country, particularly in northern Kerala. Locally referred to as Kandal Kakka, the clam inhabits organic-rich muddy substrates in intertidal mangrove zones.

Scientists from CMFRI’s Mariculture Division successfully induced spawning of the mangrove clam and completed its full embryonic and larval development under controlled hatchery conditions. Successful spat settlement was recorded from the 18th day after spawning, marking a crucial milestone in the species’ life-cycle completion in captivity.

The breakthrough marks one of the very few documented instances globally of induced breeding, larval rearing and spat production of the mangrove clam. The scientists are now working to standardize larval rearing and nursery management protocols to enhance survival rates and enable large-scale seed production.

CMFRI scientists said that the development of hatchery technology and grow-out farming in suitable estuarine systems could pave the way for low-input farming. According to them, the stock of this resource can be sustainably enhanced through ranching of hatchery-produced seeds in critical mangrove ecosystems, thereby supporting the clam restoration and mangrove conservation.

This achievement is expected to open new avenues for sustainable livelihoods and nutritional security of mangrove-dependent communities, particularly in coastal regions of Kerala. Farming activities using hatchery produced seeds will help restore depleted natural stocks, reduce pressure on wild populations and strengthen livelihood opportunities for coastal communities.

In India, particularly along the east coast and in island regions, wild stocks have been steadily declining due to indiscriminate harvesting, habitat degradation, pollution and coastal development. The absence of scientific stock assessments, size limits and seasonal fishing restrictions has further aggravated the depletion, with noticeable reductions in both abundance and shell size.

One of the largest mud clams in the world, reaching shell widths of up to 10 cm, it plays a crucial ecological role by recycling nutrients and stabilizing sediments, while also supporting the food security and livelihoods of mangrove-dependent communities.

e.o.m.

Published on February 9, 2026