Field Visit to Mussel Culture and Cage Culture Unit at Sastana, Udupi

    A field visit was carried out to the mussel culture and cage culture units at Sastana, Udupi, on 8 November 2025 to review the progress of ongoing farming activities and provide technical advice to the farmers. Dr. Sreekanth GB, Senior Scientist (FRM), ICAR-CCARI interacted with the farmers and offered practical suggestions to enhance culture efficiency. He advised the farmers to use trash fish as feed, adjusting the feed type and quantity based on the size of the stocked fish seeds, to ensure adequate growth of the seeds. He also recommended relocating the mussel ropes to deeper regions to prevent mussel drop and improve the yield. It is also advised to use the low cost estuarine fish trap for the collection of red snapper and pearlspot seeds for stocking in the cages. A total of three farmers (all male) participated in the interaction, actively discussing their farming experiences and the challenges faced in culture operations. The visit provided an excellent opportunity for hands-on learning and exchange of ideas aimed at promoting sustainable and productive aquaculture practices. The farmers also requested input support for the mussel seeds and fish seeds under the SCSP plan for strengthening farming activities in the region.