Reproductive biology of green tiger shrimp Penaeus semisulcatus De Haan, 1844 in Palk Bay, southeast coast of India

Abstract

Penaeus semisulcatus forms a single-species fishery of significant importance along Palk Bay’s southeast coast of India. The reproductive biology of the species was studied from the region as parameters like ovary development, maturity stages, and the spawning season are necessary for better management of the resources. The male testis of P. semisulcatus has eight testicular lobes with oval-shaped ampoules. Chromatin oocytes in immature females, cortical oocytes in mature females, and Atreatic oocytes in mature females were observed. The dark green (or greenish brown) ovary with elongated cortical bodies in the periphery of the ova is fully mature. The spawning season is most active in the post-monsoon and monsoon, with a minor peak in the pre-monsoon. The Lm50 determined was extremely low when compared to other studies conducted on the species, which is attributed to fishing pressure. Males mature earlier than females, and they do not have specific seasons or cyclic changes. The female-to-male ratio was not equal, and females were always found in greater numbers. Beyond 3 Nautical Miles (NM), the entire Palk Bay is designated as a spawning ground, while up to 3 NM, is designated as a nursery ground. These species can be harvested sustainably by imposing a seasonal ban on shrimp fishing during the peak breeding season, regardless of gear.