RAMANATHAPURAM: The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust (GOMBRT) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Central Salt Marine Chemical Research Institute (CSMCRI) to promote cultivation of indigenous seaweeds.

Seaweed cultivation is one of the alternative sources of income identified by the GOMBRT, which is implementing a marine conservation programme in the Gulf of Mannar with funding from Global Environment Fund.

V.K. Melkani, Chief Conservator of Forests and Director, GOMBRT, said here on Friday that out of 147 indigenous varieties of seaweeds, two varieties, `Gracilaria edulis' and `Gelidiella acerosa,' were chosen as they had a huge demand in the market. As per the agreement, the CSMCRI would manage seaweed cultivation to be undertaken by four self-help groups identified by the Trust.

Cultivation would be carried out in four locations — Mandapam, Keelakarai, Erwadi and Tuticorin. The CSMCRI would give technical guidance for one year.

K. Eswaran, Scientist in-Charge, CSMCRI, Mandapam, said that half a hectare in each location would be brought under seaweed cultivation.

The SHG members would be given training from the initial stage of cultivation to harvest.

V. Naganathan, Eco Development Officer, GOMBRT, said that 400 rafts would be placed in each site. Based on the profitability of the project, another group of 100 SHGs would be involved in the venture.

Mr. Melkani said that the idea was to divert the attention of villagers of coastal areas, who were illegally collecting natural seaweed from the prohibited marine national park.

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