ABSTRACT To study the Ichthyofaunal fish diversity of Kharakuva Fish Market, Veraval, Gujarat. Field experiment was conducted during August, 2017 to March, 2018 at Kharakuva Fish Market, Veraval, Gujarat. Data was collected at monthly intervals. Samplings was done at fortnightly intervals. Identification of fishes was based on fresh or preserved specimens. They were identified by using standard taxonomic keys. The collected fish were identified up to species level. During the present study there were 94 finfish species under 14 order and 52 families, whereas 26 shellfish species belonging to 4 orders and 10 families were reported. Among the finfishes order Perciformes while in case of shellfishes order Decapoda represents abundance in landing. In case of family wise contribution Carangidae contributes more number of finfish species and family Penaeidae contributes more number of shellfish species. The price structure reported that shellfish fetches good value than that of finfish. Among finfish Protonibea diacanthus (Jew fish) and among the shellfish lobsters viz., Penulirus homarus and P. ornatus (Spiny lobster) fetches the highest price. During the present study there was good amount of finfish as well as shellfish resources was landed. There is good number of species diversity also reported, which represents the study location having good potential of fisheries resource. The price structure also fetches good market price. So to maintain this good condition of fisheries resource as well as market price the rules and regulations which were already made by government of Gujarat should have to be follow strictly by the fisherman.
Fish diversity, Kharakuva Fish Market, Fish price, Veraval, Gujarat
