Observations in 1977 and 1978 seem to indicate the abundance of Chanos fry during the months of September through December, especially with the early scattered rain. The fry disappear with the coming of heavy rains (Tables 2 and 3 and Fig. 5) resulting in very turbid water along the shores of the project. However, Chanos juveniles from 8 to 25 cm continue to come into the swamps up to April. It is reported that “sabalo” Chanos spawners of 5 to 8 kg are occasionally caught in the Diego Suarez Bay.
It is quite necessary to determine what are the locally available species that would yield to profitable pond culture:
This survey is suggested to be done all around the island of Madagascar on a whole year basis. It is most logical to study the shoreline and establish stations that can operate simultaneously with exactly the same catching gear, the same method and speed and at precisely the same start and finfish time and be collated and quantified. Needless to say that this would lead to an assessment of the fry resources and can give direction as to areas to be developed and devoted to certain species.
It is suggested that a two-man beach seine be used as it is most convenient to carry around and most simple to operate. Further, it is suggested that the standard measurement of 3 m × 7 m be used, the mesh being that of the finest window screen. This can be in nylon or abaca hemp fiber.
