Krishna River Delta Fisheries and Backwater Ecology

The Krishna river delta in Krishna district supports one of Andhra Pradesh's most productive inland fisheries — encompassing the delta channels, tidal backwaters, and Pulicat Lake on the coast. Traditional fishing communities (Jalari and Besthas) use shore seines, cast nets, and catamaran boats to fish the delta channels and nearshore coastal waters. The Pulangula (backwater prawn) season drives intense seasonal employment for women workers who sort, peel, and process prawn catches at coastal landing centres. Mangrove forests in the Krishna delta's tidal zone provide critical nursery habitat for fish and prawn species. Community-based mangrove conservation groups in the Krishna delta have replanted over 2 million mangrove saplings in degraded tidal areas since 2000.