3. PERIODICALS

(09) In fact, periodicals are a more important source of information to researchers than books, since papers in periodicals present generally more recent background information, as well as specifics on research methodologies and on results presented.

(10) In the broad field of fisheries and aquaculture that is covered by the mandate of FRI, numerous periodicals exist. The list presented on pages 46, 47 and 48 is only a selection, but can be considered a selection that would fulfil the needs of FRI and its stations during the coming 5 years (period covered by the research masterplan). The list contains only periodicals published abroad in the English language; it is assumed that FRI will anyway subscribe to the various Bangladeshi fisheries and aquaculture journals.

A selective proposal of about 60 periodicals was prepared by the FAO-research planning advisor to FRI. This list was screened by the senior FRI staff, and about 35 additions were given, that are marked in the list with “FRI”. For a number of these additions the place of issue could not be traced in the short time available, but since they were proposed by FRI staff, the references can be completed later on.

(11) Subscription to international periodicals is often very expensive: the yearly rate for the (very important) journal “Aquaculture”, for example, is in the order of US$ 700. FRI is already in discussion with FAO, in order to investigate possibilities for financial assistance for subscriptions. FRI should also take up enough financial provision for such subscriptions in its “contract research” proposals to the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC), as well as in its own yearly budget. If, however, not enough funds can be raised to subscribe to the majority of the about journals listed, a selection has to be made. In the list on pages 46, 47 and 48 therefore, a column “core” has been added: the set of about 20 journals indicated with an asterisk (*) in this column can be considered the bare minimum for FRI. Yearly costs for this “core” set will be in the order of US$ 2500. The journal “Biological Abstracts” is left from the core column, since it will practically double the amount of money needed.

(12) In subscription to expensive international journals, FRI might seek co-operation with other institutions active in the field of fisheries and aquaculture in Bangladesh, such as the Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) in Mymensingh, Dhaka University, Chittagong University, the Directorate of Fisheries, and the Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation: issues of periodicals can easily be sent around on the basis of share of costs.

(13) For a number of journals (especially those indicated as core (*)), purchase of back issues is wanted. Probably, a set of back issues since 1980 will cover the main requirements; older papers can be obtained through reprint requests. The funds needed for these back volumes (1980–1987) are estimated to amount to US$ 20,000. It is suggested that FRI requests a donation for this from interested donors, like USAID (PL 480 funds), IDRC, ODA or Japanese Aid.

LIST OF PERIODICALS ADVISED FOR FRI

ADDITIONAL PERIODICALS ADVISED BY FRI