ICAR-CIBA Achieves Breakthrough in Sustainable Mud Crab Aquaculture

ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (CIBA) has achieved a significant milestone in sustainable aquaculture by successfully cultivating mud crabs in earthen ponds. The institute’s mud crab aquaculture programme has reared hatchery-grown mud crab instars (weighing 2g) to marketable sizes exceeding 500g in just 165 days.  

The programme recorded a total production of 70 kg, with an impressive average body weight of 720g. Notably, the survival rate stood at 45%, a considerable achievement for mud crab farming, with a rearing density of 300 crabs per acre.

Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Lal, Director of ICAR-CIBA, highlighted the growing importance of mud crab farming to meet increasing demand. He also highlighted its potential to diversify brackishwater aquaculture, ensuring sustainability in this critical sector of Indian aquaculture. “Mud crab farming is not only an answer to future demand but also an essential component in maintaining the ecological balance and economic stability of coastal communities,” he noted.

ICAR-CIBA's mud crab farming initiative was demonstrated under the Scheduled Caste Special Programme in Pattipulam village, Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu, involving local coastal communities. A harvest-cum-field day was organized at the site, offering hands-on learning to the community members and showcasing the potential of mud crab farming as a lucrative livelihood option.

This achievement underlines the success of sustainable aquaculture practices and presents a viable opportunity for coastal communities to enhance their income through mud crab farming. As demand for seafood rises globally, such initiatives can play a vital role in securing food and income for future generations.