The CMFRI estimates that with the two cycles of rearing, the fishermen can get back their investment in a year’s time. With the quality of seeds and feed being monitored, the fish can reach a weight of 750 gm to one kilogram, which cost about Rs 150 in the domestic market.

“Of course, since this is our first trial, we have been facing some problems. But we are correcting them along the way. This is a cyclone-prone region and the cage has to withstand winds at speeds of 60 to 70 km an hour. Keeping this in mind, we have increased the upgraded the quality of the material by using HDP which can withstand high pressure. We are also providing more anchorage to the cage and constantly improving the design and sturdiness to withstand rough sea conditions,” said Dr. Rao.

Local fishermen and private aqua-culturists have shown interest in the cages.