…A home to pearls
HERALD REPORTER
PANJIM, APRIL 14
A study carried out by the National Institute of Oceanography has found the presence of natural pearls in the Chicalim bay which is a rich habitat of windowpane oysters, harvesting of which could provide an alternative source of livelihood.
The study states compared to some places in South East Asia where pearls are found, the percentage of pearl formation in Chicalim bay stood at 2-4% which is considered good. This means in 100 oysters pearls were found in four.
However, the study reveals preliminary survey indicated that about 8,000 to 10,000 adult oysters (placuna placenta) are harvested on a daily basis from this site which suggests the activity is carried out clandestinely.
The study involved an extensive field sampling for 13 months both in the inter-tidal and sub-tidal waters in Chicalim bay, near the St Jacinto Island in the Zuari estuary. It states that natural stocks of windowpane oysters inhabit the soft, muddy substrate of the bay and their population was in healthy condition.
The study says that the presence of windowpane could also serve as important bio-indicator and valuable source of raw material for pharmaceuticals that needs to be systematically managed. There is considerable scope in utilising this important resource by extracting pearls for ornamental purpose.
…A home to pearls
PANJIM, APRIL 14 A study carried out by the National Institute of Oceanography has found the presence of natural pearls in the Chicalim bay which is a rich habitat of windowpane oysters, harvesting of which could provide an alternative source of livelihood.
