ICAR-CIBA, Chennai Demonstrates High-Density Blue Swimmer Crab Farming in Brackishwater Earthen Ponds

ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai demonstrated the farming of high-density Blue Swimmer Crab (Portunus reticulatus) in brackishwater earthen ponds. The crab seeds were stocked at a high density of 3 crabs per square meter.

In about 120 days (Days of Culture) the crabs achieved a 60% survival rate with an average body weight of 120 grams, yielding an overall productivity of 2,160 kg/ha. A critical driver of this success was the exclusive use of a formulated pelleted feed - CIBA Blue Swimmer Crabplus - which ensured optimal nutrition, reduced reliance on wild trash fish, and supported environmental stability within pond systems.

M/s. Success Self Help Group from Puthunemmeli Village, Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu, demonstrated a livelihood development model for high-density crab farming in collaboration with local seafood traders. The freshly harvested crabs were sold directly to local merchants at the pond site for an attractive price of ₹500 per kg, ensuring immediate market access and better returns.

The demonstration highlighted the importance of a reliable supply of quality, hatchery-reared crab seed for successful farming. The immediate sale of harvested crabs at a remunerative price showcased the strong commercial potential and economic viability of high-density crab farming as a sustainable livelihood opportunity for rural communities and self-help groups.

Popularizing Blue Swimmer Crab farming is the need of the hour for Indian aquaculture. As a high-value alternative brackishwater species, it offers remarkable climate resilience, capable of surviving low and fluctuating salinities.

Its rapid growth, short crop duration, high survival under high density, and willingness to accept formulated pelleted feed make it an economically superior and sustainable option for farmers. Expanding this eco-friendly model across coastal regions will play a pivotal role in strengthening rural livelihoods, enhancing climate adaptability, and driving sustainable growth in India's blue economy.

This demonstration was executed under the Schedule Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP) project on Front line demonstration on mud crab and blue swimmer crab in polyculture and monoculture systems, and the initiative established a sustainable model for high-value species diversification and coastal livelihood enhancement.

(Source: ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai)