Revolutionizing Aquaculture: First Successful Pearl Formation in Manipur Using Indigenous Mussels (Lamellidens spp.)

Author: Bijayalakshmi Devi Nongmaithem, Ajit Kumar Ngangbam, Lakshmikanta Khundrakpam, Laishram Lenin, Laiphrakpam Pinky, Khangembam Brajamani Meetei and Arunkumar Laishram

Download PDF

Abstract

This study represents the first report of pearl formation in freshwater mussels, Lamellidens spp. from Manipur, India, highlighting the feasibility of sustainable pearl farming practices in the region. Pearl farming is a promising aquaculture practice with significant economic and ecological potential, yet it remains underexplored in northeastern India, including Manipur. This study investigates the possibilities of pearl culture using indigenous freshwater mussels, Lamellidens spp., collected from Waithou, Thoubal district in Manipur. A total of 100 mussels were acclimatized and surgically implanted with nuclei to evaluate pearl formation, survival, and growth performance. Mussels were cultured under controlled conditions, with water quality parameters closely monitored to ensure optimal growth. After six months of culture period, 74% of the mussels survived, and 90% successfully retained the implanted nuclei, forming nacre layers indicative of pearl development. Growth performance showed an average shell length increase from 8.98cm to 9.32 cm. The pearls produced were predominantly half-round, with high lustre, minimal surface imperfections, and an average diameter of 4.3 mm (nacre thickness 0.3mm). The findings highlight the potential of Lamellidens spp. for sustainable pearl farming, offering a low-cost and viable aquaculture practice to enhance rural income and promote biodiversity conservation. This study supports the development of pearl farming clusters in Manipur as an alternative livelihood strategy, integrating economic growth with ecological preservation.

Keywords

Pearl farming, Lamellidens spp., Sustainable aquaculture, Freshwater mussels, Nacre formation

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential for pearl farming in Manipur, as pearls were successfully formed using local mussels during this preliminary investigation. Notably, no prior studies on pearl farming using native mussels have been conducted in Manipur, possibly due to unexplained reasons. The successful formation of pearls in this study paves the way for Manipur to become a pioneer in sustainable aquaculture. The implementation of pearl farming using local freshwater mussels (Lamellidens sp.) can mark a significant achievement, contributing to the region’s economic development and the promotion of sustainable aquaculture practices. The high survival rates, consistent growth performance, and formation of pearls (nacre deposition around the nucleus) underscore the feasibility of utilizing Lamellidens species for commercial pearl culture. This initiative demonstrates not only the biological viability of pearl farming in Manipur but also its economic potential as a sustainable livelihood option, particularly for rural communities. Future research should focus on optimizing surgical implantation techniques, improving post-operative care, and extending culture durations to enhance pearl quality and yield. Long-term studies are required to assess the impacts of environmental factors, genetic selection, and feed supplementation on mussel health and pearl formation. Additionally, integrating pearl farming with eco-tourism and the handicraft industry has the potential to enhance economic benefits while simultaneously preserving cultural heritage and raising environmental awareness. Expanding production capacity and implementing farmer-training programs will be pivotal for ensuring widespread adoption, thereby driving economic development and promoting sustainable aquaculture practices in the region. Collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders will be essential to realize the full potential of pearl farming in Manipur and contribute to the broader goals of rural development and biodiversity conservation.

References

-

How to cite this article

Bijayalakshmi Devi Nongmaithem, Ajit Kumar Ngangbam, Lakshmikanta Khundrakpam, Laishram Lenin, Laiphrakpam Pinky, Khangembam Brajamani Meetei and Arunkumar Laishram (2024). Revolutionizing Aquaculture: First Successful Pearl Formation in Manipur Using Indigenous Mussels (Lamellidens spp.). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(12): 119-122.