Mill
=
|
AUGUST 1949
Vol. 11 ,No.8
FISH and WILDLIFE SERVICE
United States Department of the Interior
W ashington, D.C.
UNITED STATES
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
J.A.KRUG, Secretary ALBERT M. DAY, Director
= COMMERCIAL REVIEW
ey ~6FISHERIESE
A REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENTS AND NEWS OF THE FISHERY INDUSTRIES
PREPARED IN THE BRANCH OF COMMERCIAL FISHERIES
A. W. Anderson , Editor
R.T. Whiteleather, Associate Editor
Wm.H. Dumont and J. Pileggi, Assistant Editors
Applications for COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW, which is mailed tree to members of the
fishery industries and allied interests,should be addressed to the
Director, Fish ond Wildlife Service, United Stotes Department of the Interior, Washington, 25, D.C.
The contents of this publication have not been copyrighted and may be reprinted freely; however, reference fo
the source will be appreciated. The Service assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of material from outside sources.
CONTENTS
COVER: REMOVING SEED OYSTERS FROM "HARDENING RACKS IN
THE SPRING IN A JAPANESE PROTECTED BAY AMONG THE MAT-
SUSHIMA |SLANDS-OF MIYAGI PREFECTURE. THESE STRINGS
OF SHELLS WERE REMOVED FROM RAFTS OR ROCKS AND PLACED
UPON THESE "HARDENING RACKS THE PREVIOUS AUTUMN (SEE
ARTICLE ON PAGE |)
PAGE
JAPANESE METHODS OF OYSTER CULTURE, BY JOHN B. GLUD ....... BuO a
USE OF PYREX TEST & CULTURE TUBES AS SOLUTION CELLS WITH PFALTZ *& BAUER PHOTO-
ELECTRIC FLUOROPHOTOMETER, BY CHARLES S. MYERS ...s.seecesececerererecacscecees 8
* + * & & &
PAGE PAGE
RESEARCH IN SERVICE LABORATORIES ..... 14 FOREIGN (CONT. ):
TRENDS AND DEVELOPMENTS: ...-.-+eee+-- 16 BULGARIVANa striate sisicis citi acielotensioteus a ihevarenstomeoe
ADDITIONS TO THE FLEET OF U.S. FISH- BIZONE GERMANY, cionecn cis cole clevelsiorsceiieremeoe
INGEVESSELSi eens wenerelelcle BENS Sot ISU ITo) BRITISH EAST AFRICA (TANGANYIKA) ... 33
ECA PROCUREMENT AUTHOR| ZATIONS FOR. BRITISH GUIANA ..ceececeerrececceses 34
RSHERYOPRODUGTSU Me tinine eistereiclereiiercrenlO GOLONY) OF (SARAWAK ou. scene oles ceisies ono
FEDERAL PURCHASES OF FISHERY GY/PRUSH a sitvcneictehnle e eiovievetonielelerersy on crevenoteneme Oo)
FeriiciS Godasasoududaucoucdosodano UG DOMINICAN REPUBLIC ...2.0+.--eee000- 3D
FISHERY BIOLOGY NOTES .......++- 5 08) EGUADOR citer claierovnieie.clelns ci tercinciieister tun SO
PRELIMINARY REPORT ON TUNA FISHING. NGEWAND imei vai etcielsiereleielaiicversiollonereraertemecla
TRIP OFF CENTRAL AMERICA (APRIL 23- IND WAWbe rer actovetelelevelefalielerstcloreietersiow ictal tema SI
TUTE OF, NCIS) Geadsadusac badaoo000 A) (WAL, Saboc¢boe0 050 dopososopoOODdone as)
PROGRAM OF THE N.C. INSTITUTE OF WARAN concdoobboao0 bocgcouDoOcOCOODS Se)
FISHERIES RESEARCH ........-.- a2) MEXII(GO} eiavemre is Ae Asanraranio Oo oe
REPORT OF PACIFIC OCEANIC FISHERY REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ....++.- 47
INVESTIGATIONS, JUNE 1949 ......... 23 TURKEY) dverscilolele cielee)sisisietcieialeis wlelsiolelaieiamianS
SERVICE FILM CHOSEN FOR INTERNATION- UNITED SKIINGDOMEeeircinienisiticuies asta terme
AL CINEMATOGRAPHIC ART EXHIBITION . 23 FEDERAL ACTIONS: ....cceeeersreeceeses 49
USE OF CALIFORNIA SARDINES FOR RE- DEPARTMENT OF STATE:
DUCTION PURPOSES LIMITED ...0-e+0+8 23 U.S. MEMBER OF THE INTERNATIONAL
U.S. PACK OF CANNED ANCHOVIES, 1948. 24 PACIFIC SALMON FI1SHER!£S COMMIS-
U.S. PACK OF CANNED ANIMAL FOOD FROM SION APPOINTED ..cccevececese- reer 49
FISHERY PRODUCTS, 1948 ....... Soba EIGHTY-FiRST CONGRESS (FIRST SES-
U.S. PACK OF CANNED FISH ROE AND” SION) oui NCHS GH osouascsoasecons 49)
CMI: (EYES) Ooibob do poo eooe Wears). IGHAPKER! GbBonocsGcn0s sopoooobdoUpasco$ BZ
U.S. PRODUCTION OF MARINE ANIMAL LANDINGS AND RECEIPTS ..2-2+seeerees 52
(VIL MOA Goencds aoadaccson0cosndG. Ze COLD STORAGE HOLDINGS AND FREEZINGS.
U.S. PRODUCTION OF MARINE PEARL= OF FISHERYS PRODUGT S! a cisics crea c cleiatelsen OS
SHELL BUTTONS, 1948 .......... Seeeri CANNED FISHERY PRODUCTS .....<0-e-+- 54
U.S. PRODUCTION OF FRESH-WATER MUS- PRICES, IMPORTS AND BYPRODUCTS ..-.. 595
SEL-SHELL PRODUCTS, 1948 ..-...-,... 28 RECENT FISHERY PUBLICATIONS: .....6... 56
WHOLESALE AND RETAIL PRICES ....-... 28 FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE PUBLI-
FiOREWGNiniraveve rs iculsienelsheleisleiefeieie\ elledeieleticdale biog. ei) GMPNCKS Gesttboascasdoconcuagboddbou Be
ARGENTINE REPUBLIC ...-.0++-e+cerevee SO MISCELLANEOUS PUBLI CATIONS ,..200,¢- 56
AUSTRALIA 2... cceeres aichefelalevel slefeleseioral it S))
COME
August 1949 Washington 25, D.C. Vol. 11, No.8
JAPANESE METHODS OF OYSTER CULTURE
By John B Glud**
INTRODUCTION
Cyster culture in Japan dates back to the early history of the country. Food
fromthe sea was extremely important because of huge populations concentrated along
the narrow coastal plain. Here oyster culture has been tried in many ways and ex—
amples of the most primitive to very advanced methods are to be seen. The abun—
dance of labor makes possible methods which would be unprofitable elsewhere, and
yet in these methods may exist an idea which, if properly applied, would solve
problems in other parts of the world.
Oysters are grown practically along the entire coast line of Japan, but the
industry centers in the following favorable areas:
1, The great shallow bays among the Matsushima Islands near Sendai in northern
Honshu are wonderfully adapted to oyster culture, These waters are rich
in the foods needed by larval oysters making this area a center of seed
production,
2, Thousands of acres of bottoms in Tokyo Bay produce oysters but never in
sufficient quantity to meet the great demand,
3. The Inland Sea, including the waters in front of Hiroshima, is the oldest
center of oyster culture in Japan, Warm protected waters and great expanses
of tidelands combine to make this area a large producer of oysters,
4. Matoya Bay and the many other inlets near Nagoya are admirably suited to
the culture of food oysters as well as pearl oysters.
5. Yatsushiro Bay in Kumamato Prefecture on the island of Kyushu also pro=
duces many oysters,
Two general methods of oyster culture are used in Japan; those in which the
oysters are placed upon the bottom, and those in which the oysters are suspended
above the bottom, Each method has certain advantages and disadvantages as described
below.
BOTTOM CULTURE
MATSUSHIMA ISLANDS: Among the Matsushima Islands in Miyagi Prefecture in
northern Honshu, the tidal range averages about four feet and the depth at low
tide is less than ten feet. Oysters are grown at the bottom from natural seed
or from planted seed in the same manner as along our Atlantic Coast. Harvesting
is done exclusively with small hand tongs. Fewoysters are produced by this method
principally because of the predations of oyster drills and starfish.
#Fishery Research Biologist, Branch of Fishery Biology, Fish and Wildlife Service.
Note: This report is based upon observations made while the author was in Japan in 1947 and
1948, representing the State of Washington Department of Fisheries and the Pacific Coast
Oyster Growers Association in the inspection of seed oysters which were being exported to
the United States.
2 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
TOKYO BAY AND INLAND SEA: In these areas the tidal range is greater than in
Miyagi Prefecture, exposing large areas of tidelands at low tide. Seed oysters
attached to scallop, oyster, abalone, or clam shells are placed upon the beach.
Predators are hand picked from the beds and the oysters are moved from growing
grounds to fattening grounds before marketing. Harvesting is done at low tide by
hand. In-many ways these methods correspond to those used along our Pacific Coast.
YATSUSHIRO BAY: The bottom of this bay in southern Kyushu is largely soft
mud. During the summer, it is exposed to severe typhoons which make oyster cul—
ture very difficult. This area also has a greater tidal range than in northern
Honshu.
FIGURE | - HARVESTING OYSTERS IN YATSUSHIRQ BAY, KUMAMATO PREFECTURE.
Seed oysters are obtained here by placing round stones 24 to 4 inches in
diameter on the bottom at the mouth of a small river where spatting is good dur—
ing May. The stone cultch with the attached oysters is left in this protected
location until the typhoon season is over and then taken by small boat to the
growing grounds.
The stones are placed upon the bottom in parallel bands about five feet wide
with a space of about six or seven feet between the rows, Years of placing the
stones in the same bands has built up the level of the bottom and has left channels
between the rows.
In September or October of the second year when the oysters have grown to
marketable size, the Japanese oystermen bring small open boats through the chan—
nels and fill them with oysters, for transfer to fattening grounds. The growing
grounds are at a medium tidal level, but fattening grounds are at a low level where
oysters are exposed only at extreme low tide.
After 2 or 3 months, the oysters are harvested by raking them onto small
wire-covered frames which are then agitated to wash the mud from the shells. The
oystermen wear rubber waders and work in water as deep as three feet. (Figure 1.)
This primitive method is very slow and laborious as the rocks are included with
the oysters and must be handled many times. The stones are saved and are again
placed in the water as cultch during the following summer.
However, stone cultch has two advantages: it stays in place during typhoons,
and it hclds the oysters up above the mud.
August 1949 CCMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 3
RACK CULTURE
Oyster drills and starfish cause great mortalities among oysters grown upon
the bottom. Others are smothered by silt.
To reduce these losses, the oysters are suspended from racks, or fences are
built in the lower half of the intertidal zone. Most of these fences consist only
of posts about eight feet apart with one horizontal pole placed on top.
The seed oysters are attached to old oyster shells which have a hole through
the middle. These shells are strung on wire or tarred straw rope and held 6 to 8
inches apart by bamboo spacers or by twisting the strands of rope. The strings of
seed are attached to the horizontal poles on the racks and must be short enough to
clear the bottom by several inches. The oyster drills and starfish which crawl
upon the bottom and cannot swim are thus kept away from the young oysters.
The principal difficulty with this type of culture is that these oysters be-—
come extremely heavy as they approach market size. This bends the poles and forces
the posts deeper into the mud bottom. Soon the lowest oysters are touching bottom
and predators are able to attack the oysters.
The advantage of rack culture is the rapid growth rate of the oysters placed
above the bottom. The drills are mainly an enemy of the younger oysters so that
rapid growth reduces the time during which they are attacked.
RAFT MEIHOD
In the protected bays among the Matsushima Islands of Miyagi Prefecture and
in Matoya Bay near Nagoya and in other suitable locations, oysters are grown with-
out ever touching bottom.
Seed oysters are ob—
tained by punching holes
in old oyster, scallop, or
abalone shells and string-
ing them upon wires about “
- 6feet long. Scallop shells far
are usually preferred be-
cause of their large size.
These strings of shells
are draped over fences per
similar to those used in
rack culture of oysters
or suspended from rafts ee
during the spawning sea-—
son (Figure 2). Larval
oysters attach to these
shells in great numbers.
OR Bg etic on.
; ahaa tae
a
In the autumn, the
strings of shells are re—
moved from the rafts or “==
racks and placed horizon-
tally upon wide "harden-—
ing" racks built about 18
he RS
at teh
i
FIGURE 2 -~ OYSTER CULTURE RAFTS ARE ANCHORED IN DEEP PROTECTED BAYS.
4 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
inches above the beach in the intertidal zone (Figure 3). The seed oysters remain
upon these racks until the following spring when they are taken ashore and shipped
to the growing areas (see front cover page). Seed from Miyagi Prefecture is sent
all over Japan by methods similar to those used in exporting seed to the United
States.
At the destination, the shells with spat attached are strung on wires about
10 feet long with a 6— to 8-inch bamboo spacer between each shell.
Rafts are supported by tarred wooden barrels or old oil drums held in place
by an open pole framework. The strings of seed are attached to the rafts at about
two foot intervals and the rafts are anchored in deep enough water so that the
oysters will never touch bottom. (Figure 5)
se
FIGURE 3 - SEED OYSTERS ARE HELD ON HARDENING RACKS AT WATANOHA THROUGH THE WINTER.
One year later in southern Japan or 13 to 2 years later in northern Japan,
the oysters are ready to be harvested. A simple "A" frame is placed on a boat or
directly upon the rafts and used to lift the oysters out of the water. (Figure 6).
The wire is cut near the bottom and the oysters slide into the boat. Wires and
bamboo spacers are used only once.
A shortage of wire has caused many growers to substitute two strands of tar-—
red straw rope twisted together (Figure 4). The shells bearing the spat are in—
serted between the strands at intervals of 6 to 12 inches and as the oysters grow
they are held firmly in place.
GROWTH RATE AND REDUCTION
The Japanese claim that oysters grow much more rapidly suspended from rafts
than they do on the bottom even when they are covered by water at all times.
Ordinarily oysters raised on the bottom in Miyagi Prefecture reached market—
able size in 3 years. Raft—cultured oysters, however, are harvested after 13 to
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 5
2 years. Seed oysters are caught in July and August and are hung from rafts the
next April. By the following December to May, the oysters are ready to market.
-
. ae Me
In southern Japan similar
Miyagi seed, hung from rafts in
April, is harvested the follow-—
ing November. Local seed caught
in Matoya Bay in July and sus—
pended from rafts immediatelyis
harvested the following May.
Oysters are marketed when
about 3 inches long and are us-—
ually shucked and sold fresh.
Lack of transportation facilities
limit the fresh oyster market to
the vicinity of the beds and some _
oysters are salted, dried, or i
smoked.
Production per—unit-—area of
the raft method of oyster culture
is extremely high. Each 10-foot
string produces about = bushel of
marketable oysters. Strings are
spaced on 2-foot centers and rafts
are tied end to end. Production on this basis can exceed 8,000 bushels per acre
per year. This immense production is accomplished by utilizing the third dimen—
sion of depth.
FIGURE 4 - OYSTER SHELLS BEARING THE SPAT ARE INSERTED
BETWEEN STRANDS OF TARRED STRAW ROPE.
FIGURE 5 - STRINGS OF SEED OYSTERS ARE SUSPSNDED BELOW RAFTS AND NEVER TOUCH BOTTOM.
6 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES: In Japan where space is at a premium and labor
costs are low, the raft method is very successful. Predations from crawling snails
and starfish are eliminated, mortality by smothering of spat on the under side of
cultch is eliminated, and all spat have an even chance to grow. More oysters can
be raised per shell without excessive crowding because they can grow downward as
well as outward and upward.
Oysters are held in warmer,
less saline, and more nutritive
layers of water close to the
surface and growth is very rapid.
Harvesting is simplified and
can be done at any tidal stage.
Barrel floats for the
rafts which are removed and
tarred each spring will us—
ually last 3 or 4 years. The
pole framework is not under
water and lasts for manyyears.
Poles are easily obtained on
the hills adjacent to the
oyster growing areas with low-—
priced labor.
The principal disadvant—
age to this method of oyster
culture in Japan is that severe
storms will break apart the
rafts. A recent tidal wave
smashed over 50 rafts in one
bay and, therefore, raft cul—
ture is confined to the deep
protected inlets along the
coast.
APPLICATION IN UNITED
FIGURE 6 - AT THE END OF-| OR IX YEARS, THE RAFT- STATES: In the United States
CULTURED OYSTERS ARE READY FOR MARKET. =p
raft culture of oysters is
being experimented with near
Vaughn, Washington. Vaughn Bay is a narrow branch of Puget Sound which is protect—
ed from stormse The rafts are constructed of a fir-pole framework and supported
by oil drums. Strings of oysters are suspended from horizontal monel metal wires
which are stretched across the rafts. Seed shells are strung on #12 galvanized wires
about 8 feet long.
Instead of using bamboo spacers between the seed shells, one complete loop
of the wire is made at 6—-inch intervals, which separates the shells (Figure 7).
The seed oysters used in this experiment were imported from Kumamato Prefec-—
ture on the Island of Kyushu, and produce smaller oysters than seed from northern
Japan. These tasty oysters, which have been named the "Washington Oyster", are
expected to fill the demand for a small white oyster for the cocktail or half—shell
trade. They become fat and marketable at a diameter of 14 to 14 inches and because
of their deeply capped shells, produce more meat than northern Japanese oysters of
Similar diameter.
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW ee
Since the "Washington
Oysters" are a specialty pro-
duct, it is expected that
raft culture will be profit-
ablein spite of the extensive
hand labor involved.
Further commercial appli-
cation of the raft method of
oyster culture onthe West
Coast will probably be con-—
fined to specialty products
for the present.
At some future date when
all of the tidelands and
shaliow bottoms are utilized
to the maximum, it will still
be possible to increase produc—
tion by anchoring oyster rafts
offshore. Many small protected
bays in Puget Sound have steep
beaches and therefore only a
small acreage of oyster lands.
These productive inlets are
admirably suited to the raft
method of oyster culture.
It is also possible that
the ingenuity of the American
oyster industry will develop
better and more economical
methods so that floating oyster
culture can compete with con-
ventional procedures.
8 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
USE OF PYREX TEST & CULTURE TUBES AS SOLUTION CELLS
WITH PFALTZ & BAUER PHOTOELECTRIC FLUOROPHOTOMETER
By Charles S. Myers**
ABSTRACT
Matched test tubes or culture tubes were used to advantage with the
Pfaltz and Bauer photoelectric fluorophotometer in place of the plane
sided cuvettes. No instrumental difficulties were introduced by use of
these tubes, A reasonable degree of vrecision and reproducibility of
results can be readily attained, In the case of the thiochrome method,
a straight line relationship between thiamine concentration and the read-
ing was maintained throughout the range of concentration normally en=
countered, There was no difficulty in obtaining a suvply of suitably
matched tubes which yielded consistent results over a considerable range
of instrument sensitivity.
INTRODUCTION
During a study of the application of the well-known thiochrome method (1, 2,
3, and 4) to a variety of fishery products, it became desirable to investigate
the feasibility of using ordinary test tubes as solution cells in the cuvette
chamber of the Pfaltz and Bauer photoelectric fluorophotometer. There are many
practical advantages afforded by such a practice, especially when a considerable
number of more or less routine assays are involved. The results of adapting the
above-mentioned instrument to the use of test or culture tubes as cuvettes for
fluorometric work are reported below.
CONSTRUCTION OF AN ADAPTER
Inasmuch as the regular construction of the instrument did not permit the
use of tubes in the measurement of intensities of fluorescent radiation (5 and
6), an adapter was constructed which enabled such usage without alteration of
the original form of the instrument.
The latter was fashioned from scrap material available in the laboratory,
namely, a wooden spool and small pieces of sheet Bakelite and spring brass. Al-
though a machinist could readily manufacture a more presentable and durable model,
that described on page 9 served the purpose and continues to be serviceable.
In Figure 1 are shown drawings of three views of the tube adapter. Only the
dimensions of the cover plate are critical, because the latter replaces the reg—
ular plate covering the cuvette chamber. The adapter accomodates the oval-shaped
bacteriological culture tubes as well as ordinary chemical test tubes. The tubes
are held in place by two spring brass clips bent to the desired shape from strips
or "turret". Extension of the depth of the spring clips from 21 to about 30 mm.
would, perhaps, insure greater permanency with respect to the precision of align—
ment of the tubes. However, the depth indicated has thus far proved adequate.
In this work, the exclusion of exterior light was completed by covering the "tur—
ret", with tube in place, with a mailing cylinder of appropriate dimensions.
% Former Chemist, Fishery Pechnological Laboratory, Branch of Commercial Fisheries, College
Park, Maryland.
August 1949 COMM” RCIAL FISHERIE. RE [EW 9
Certain features of the adapter, not ususally found in such an accessory, are
-as follows:
1, The strong positive action of the brass spring clips not only insures
precise and reproducible alignment of either round, or oval-shaped
tubes, but also accomodates variations in outside diameter between
15 and 22 mm,
2. No part of the device extends into the cuvette housing to possibly ef-
fect interferences,
3. Successive measurements or a measurement of intensity of fluorescent
radiation and transmitted light on the same solution are possible
without disturbing the assembly; and, if desired, an identical sure
face may be readily presented to either photocell by simply rotating
the tube.
THE MATCHING OF TUBES
Ordinary Pyrex chemical test tubes (18mm. in diameter) and oval culture tubes
were tested in this work. Quinine sulphate dissolved in 0.1 N H2SO04 (0.2 micro—
gram per ml.) was used as the standard reference solution. To minimize effects
due to any instability of
the quinine sulphate sol—
utions to the exciting FIGURE |.
radiation (7), a freshali- TUBE ADAPTER
quot of the stock solution
was used in each tube. To SIDE VIEW
avoid "quenching effects" ;; END VIEW
with temperature change roe i 24Mm—>
‘8 and 9), the reference
solution was used at a
reasonably constant room
temperature (no significant
"quenching effect" could
be noted when the temper—
ature of the solution was
220 + 1° ¢.). Further, in
selecting a group of match-
ed tubes, the same proce— TOP VIEW
dure was routinely follow—
= for taking readings. oop eRe
Thus, a uniform, minimum :
exposure to exciting radi- B- BAKELITE COVER PLATE
ation was maintained, such } C.- SPRING BRASS CLIPS
as was found to afford ade—
quate protection of thio-
chrome solutions (6,8).
For the initial read—
ings, the Pyrex brand trade—
mark provided a convenient
reference mark for the con—
sistent positioning of the tubes, A distinguishing mark was permanently etched
just beneath the trademark on an acceptable tube to serve both as a subsequent
reference point, and as a means of identifying matched tubes. With special at-
tention given to cleaning and general handling to avoid scratching, matched tubes
TEST TUBE OR CULTURE TUBE ADAPTER FOR PFALTZ AND BAUER
FLUOROPHOTOMETER.
10 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
usually yielded reproducible results for an indefinite period. However, it was
considered advisable to recheck the performance of tubes periodically or in the
case of erratic results.
As an arbitrary standard for the selection of tubes, a variation of + 0.5
scale division from the mean reading for a given lot of tubes was allowed when .
the absolute reading was about 50 percent of the total galvanometer scale. This
limit of variation was proportionately reduced to = 0.25 scale division for mean
readings of 25 percent or less of the total scale. Tubes found acceptable at
the former scale range were retested at the lower range with fresh standard sol-—
ution, the lower range being obtained by reducing the intensity of incident light.
Tubes acceptable at the higher range were usually also acceptable at the lower
range of scale, as shown by the data following. Thus, a consistent response was
usually obtained, over the range of scale commonly used in the regular assays,
which includes a considerable range of instrument sensitivity, as well.
The data recorded in Table 1 are characteristic of those obtained for several
lots of the different sizes and types of tubes. Group No. 3 consisted of tubes
__Table 1 - Data on the Matching of Test, and Culture Tubes for Fluorometric Readings
Tubes Accepted
Percent
Number | of Total
The cuvettes were turned end for end.
provided as "matched" by The American Instrument Company. Groups No. 5 and 7
consisted of the acceptable tubes from groups No. 4 and 6, respectively, and
show the results of the retest at lower intensities, mentioned above. For com-
parison, the data for six regular square cuvettes are recorded as No. 8 and 9,
each group consisting of the same six cuvettes, but with the latter turned end
for end in the cuvette chamber in one case as compared with the other.
With the same intensity of incident light, the absolute readings obtained
for the standard reference solution were about 38, 44, and 57 percent of that
obtained with the special square cuvettes in the case of 15 mm.-test tubes, 18-
mm. test tubes, and culture tubes, respectively. These values are approximately
proportional to the ratio of the diameter of the respective type of tube to the
width of the side of the square cuvette facing the photocell.
THE USE OF MATCHED. TUBES IN THE THIOCHROME PROCEDURE
For the oxidation to thiochrome and preparation of appropriate blanks, accord—
ing to the well-known thiochrome procedure (1, 2, 3, 4, and 10), 5 ml. aliquots
of standard solutions of thiamine hydrochloride were used. The concentrations of
the latter ranged from 0.05 to O.4 microgram per ml.. Readings of the usual iso-—
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW a!
butyl—alcohol extracts of samples and blanks, using the previously mentioned types
and sizes of tubes as solution cells, are recorded in Table 2. Data for the same
series of standard solutions using the regular cuvettes are recorded for compar-—
ison.
"Table 2 - Data on the Ass
! Thiamine in | Total Reading Net Reading |Divisions Per|Per Microgram
Solution | Sample in (galvanometer|(galvanometer | (galvanometer (galvanometer
Cell divisions) | divisions divisions
Special 0.5
cuvette 0.5 5 C
0.6 40.0 7.0 33.0 55.0 i
0.9 55-5 7.5 48.0 53.0 \
1.0 65.0 9.9 55-1 55.1
1.5 0) }
0,25 2
0.25 Chez 36.0
; 0.5 43 6.0 18.3 36.6
: 0.5 32.5 ee fe a6
: 1.0 Al N2 : 6
j 1.0 i] 10,0 38:9 30.7 i
t 1.0 48, 11.5 373 37.3 :
» 1.5 i 17. .0 6.9 :
j 0.25 ie 0 0 }
jtest 0.5 22.0 A) 0) ) i
itubes 0.5 2.0 10.0 me 28.0 :
: 0.6 25.5 9.0 16.5 27.5
; 1.0 34.0 7.0 27.0 ae
1.0 35.0 7.0 28.0 A)
i 1.5 52.7 10.0 42.7 28.5
: 2.0 67.0 10.0 .0 is
0.5 I 2 0) 5 0
‘test 0.5 28. b2 6 2
‘tubes 0.9 5 Ae) 5 6
: 0.9 8 6.3 0 0
: 0.9 0) At 9 .0
i 0.6 Ae) 35 5 .8
: 1.0 .0 .2 8 8
2 1.0 .8 03 5 5b)
l 0 Ae)
In Table 3 are recorded data on a series of standard thiamine solutions pre=— .
pared by a member of the College Park Fishery Technological Laboratory, the con—
centrations of which were unknown to the writer. The results obtained with the
matched 15-mm. tubes, culture tubes, and special cuvettes are expressed in terms
of micrograms of thiamine found, and are compared with micrograms of thiamine
present in 5 ml. of solution. At the time that these data were obtained the
matched 18 mm.-test tubes were not available.
SUMMARY
No instrumental difficulties are introduced by using Pyrex test tubes or cul=
ture tubes as solution cells with the Pfaltz and Bauer photoelectric fluorophoto-—
meter for fluorometric measurements (5 and 6). It also appears evident that a
reasonable degree of precision and reproducibility of results can be readily at-
tained; and that, in the case of the thiochrome assay, a straight line relation-
ship between thiamine concentration and reading is maintained throughout the range
of concentration normally encountered. It is further apparent that there is no
particular difficulty in obtaining a supply of suitably matched tubes which yield
consistent results over a considerable range of instrument sensitivity.
12 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
The oval-shaped culture tubes provided both the convenience of test tubes, and
a greater sensitivity in terms of galvanometer deflection per microgram of thiamine.
Therefore, this type of tube was used
chiefly in subsequent work involving
a considerable number of assays of
extracts of fishery products. The re—
gular cuvettes were used to check the
results of an appropriate number of
these assays.
Table 3 - Assay of "Unlmown" Concentrations of
Thiamine, nae fests and Culture Tubes as
Solution Cells (Micrograms Thiamine per Aliquot
Amount Found®
Amount 15-mm, Culture
mple Peesert Cette ses ae Tubes
1.52
From these latter results, to-
gether with those summarized in this
article, it was concluded that, at
least for practical purposes, matched
test tubes may be used to advantage
With the Pfaltz and Bauer instrument
for fluorometric assays in place of
He daw PIB
ace
1
1
(0)
ie)
*The values are the averages of the results of
at least four assays, in each case,
of the plane-sided cuvettes. The desirability of having available a number of the
latter for control and calibration purposes is, of course, obvious.
LITERATURE CITED
ANDHEWS, JOHN S,, and NORDGHEN, ROBERT
1941, ‘The application of the thiochrome method to the thiamin analysis of cereals and
products. Cereal Chem, 18; 686-694.
CONNER, R. J., and STRAUB, G. J.
1941. The determination of thiamin by the thiochrome reaction, Ind. Eng. Chem, Anal,
Ed, 13: 380-38,
GIBBS, THOMAS R. P,
1942. Optical methods of chemical analysis. International Chemical analysis, Inter-
national Chemical Series, McGraw = Hill Book Co. Inc., New York, pp. 172-173.
HARRIS, ROBERT $,, and THIMANN, KENNETH V,
1943. Vitamins and hormones, Advances in research and applications, Academic Press
Inc,, New York, vol, 1, pp. 145=147.
HENNESSY, DOUGLAS J,
1939. Chemical methods for the determination of vitamin B,. Ind, Eng. Chem, Anal,
Ed, 13: 26-218,
----= and CERECEDO, LEOPOLD R,
1939. The determination of free and phosphorylated thiamin by a modified thiochrome
assay. Jour, Amer, Chem, Soc, 61: 179-183.
LOOFBOWIEN, JOHN, and HARRIS, R. S.
1940. Report on an investigation of photoelectric fluorophotometry, paper presented
at the meeting of the Amer, Assoc, Cereal Chem,, Omaha, May 1940.
WEISSBERGER, ARNOLD
1946. Physical methods in organic chemistry, Interscience Publishers Inc,, New York,
vol. 2, pp. 84-867,
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW a
WOKES, FRANK; ORGAN, JOAN G.; STILL, BESS M,, and JAOOBY, F. C,
1944. The calibration of fluorimeters used for estimating vitamins, alkaloids, and
other substances, ‘The Analyst 69: 1-5,
WONG, Y. L. and HARRIS, LESLIE J.
1939. CLXVI. Methods for assessing the level of nutrition of the human subject. Es-
timation of vitamin B in the urine by the thiochrome test. Biochem,
Jour, 33: 1356-1369.
2 pounds flounder fillets
1 teaspoon salt 4 tablespoons melted butter or
1/8 teaspoon pepper other fat
3 slices bacon (optional)
Remove skin from. fillets. Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper.
Place a small ball of stuffing on each piece of fish. Roll fish around
stuffing and fasten with toothpicks or skewers. Place rolls on a well
greased baking pan. Brush tops with melted fat and lay 4 slice of bacon
onthe top of each. Bake in a moderate oven 350° F. for 25 to 35 minutes
depending on size. Remove carefully to a hot platter, take out fasten—
ings, garnish and serve hot. Serves 6.
Sole or other small fillets may be used for the above recipe.
14 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
RESEARCH
IN SE. R VICE LABORATORIES
oe SQ
June 1949
Boston, Mass.
Crystals recovered from a broth culture of a Gram variable, aerobic, non-
spore forming, small rod bacteria were positively identified as a somewhat un—
usual form of struvite (magnesium ammoniumphosphate). Of the approximately 400
bacterial cultures isolated from fish, almost all have shown crystal production
in culture media to a greater or lesser extent.
College Park, Md.
After seven months of storage, striped bass fillets held at a constant tem—
perature of —10° and 0° F., and at temperatures fluctuating between these two
points, received satisfactory scores. The scores are essentially the same for
the three groups and practically no change has occurred since the previous month.
Ht
Fillets held at a constant temperature of 15° F. and at temperatures fluc—
tuating between 0° and 15° F. have decreased considerably in quality. Those
undergoing temperature changes have received the higher scores, however. The
quantity of drip upon thawing for all groups has remained comparatively constant.
% %
After two months of storage at O° F., fillets coated with the pectinate
film lost 35.4 percent in weight and those having the ice glaze lost 41.8 percent.
Both lots obviously had an extremely dried-out appearance and would be unaccep-—
table commercially. The pectinate film became white and fibrous after a short
time in storage which would seemingly detract greatly from sales appeal.
% tH
The pan-dressed fish covered with different wrapping and glazing combinations
“have shown no changes in quality after three months of storage. Weight losses have
been negligible.
Ketchikan, Alaska
Heavy concentrations of red water occurred several different times during
June in many places in southeastern Alaska. A member of the Hooper Medical Re-
search Foundation arrived at Ketchikan at the middle of the month to spend part
of the summer investigating the red water plankton of this area. Samples of red
August 1949 COMMERCIAT. FISHERIES REVIEW UG}
water were found to contain high concentrations of Noctiluca, Peridinium, Dino-—
physis, and Ceratium. A very few Gonyaulax catenella were found in a few of the
water samples.
Seattle, Wash.
Further tests were carried out on solvent extraction to determine the best
method of analytical determination of the oil and vitamin A content of fish livers.
Results show that the analytical extraction with ethyl ether removes from the
livers other substances than true oil or fat. Petroleum ether does not penetrate
the liver material as does ethyl ether. Previous work with fish meal indicated
that solvents which are entirely non-missible with water do not give good extrac-
tion of oil.
Ht
The thiamine content was determined on raw beef liver, raw yellowfin tuna
liver, raw albacore tuna liver, and of eight meals made from these various livers
by three different processes of dehydration, namely vacuum drying with the aid
of heat at 100° F., vacuum—freeze drying, and acetone extraction dehydration.
Vacuum—freeze drying was least destructive of thiamin and meals prepared by this
process would be rich food sources of this vitamin. Vacuum drying at 100° F. of
the raw liver appeared to reduce the thiamin content by about 50 percente Ace—
tone extraction reduced the thiamin content in the beef liver meal 50 percent
greater than vacuum—freeze drying, and in the case of yellowfin tuna, no thiamin
could be detected in the acetone extracted meal. Albacore tuna meal prepared by
acetone extraction contained only 20 percent of the thiamine ccntent of the meal
prepared by vacuum-freeze drying.
ae
THE BLUE CRAB (CALLINEGTES SAPIDUS)
Blue crabs have an extensive range along the Atlantic coast--from
Massachusetts at least to the northern part of South America. They are
animals of the shallow bays, sounds, and river channels, seldom found
far out at sea, sometimes reported in fresh water. In summer, the crabs
live close inshore, but in winter move off into deeper water to escape
the cold. They do not appear to migrate extensively up and down the
coast; probably each section has its own lccal population.
The blue crab resources of the Atlantic coast yield nearly 80 mil-
lion pounds annually, of which 60 percent is taken in the waters from
New York to North Carolina. Chesapeake Bay is the chief sourceof crabs,
yielding about 42 million pounds annually.
—— Fishery Leaflet 282
16 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vole 11, No. 8
en
— = TRENDS 2
AND
Additions to the Fleet of US. Fishing Vessels
A total of 141 vessels of 5 net tons and over received their first documents
as fishing craft during May 1949—7 more than in April 1948, according to the
Bureau of Customs of the Treasury Department. Washington led with 31 vessels,
followed by Alaska with 24, and California with 21. During the first five months
of 1949, 401 vessels were documented compared with 427 during the same period in
1948.
____Vessels_ Obtaining Their First D Their Si aia Documents as Fishing Craft
Section re Tas ama GS] 1948
New England eoecoecgoceoeceocoecececos
Middle Atlantic .ccccccceccccccecccces
Che sapeake Bay Pr
South Atlantic and Gulf .....ccccccces
acific Coast ..cccccceccccccccccecscce
Great Lakes .cccoccceccccvccccccccocece
Alask. Coco eecreccecereroves OCOeoaseee®
Hawaii cocccccvcccccccccccvevcecscccve
Ge Ganannaccoannaanoncnnanoan MiP Ome Ree) U:
Note: Vessels Save been assigned to the various sections on the basis of their home port. -
ECA Procurement Authorizations for Fishery Products
The procurement authorizations for commodities and raw materials announced
during July 1949 by the Economic Cooperation Administration included $550,000 for
the purchase of fishery products (all from the United States and Possessions), com—
pared with $300,000 during June 1949. Of the total amount authorized ($34,021 ,911)
for purchases of fishery products under the ECA program for the 16—month period
through July 31, 1949, $9,059,800 was for purchases in the United States and Pos—
sessions.
During the month, ECA announced a decrease of $62,000 in an authorization of
$162,000 approved in April 1949 for the purchase of fish oil from the United States
and Possessions for delivery to Korea; a decrease of $1,000 in an authorization of
$391,000 approved in November 1948 for the purchase of fish meal from Canada for
delivery to Denmark. These reductions do not represent a decrease in quantity,
but rather an adjustment in value. In addition, a decrease of $75,000 was made
in an original authorization of $300,000 (later reduced to $200, 000) approved in
March 1949 for the purchase of canned fish from the United States and Possessions
for shipment to Belgium and Luxembourg.
August 1949 ‘COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW a7,
A new type of procurement authorization is being issued to Marshall Plan
countries since July 14 which lists a terminal date for the delivery of ECA-fi-
nanced goods instead of the present calendar delivery quarter. Shipments may be
made any time between the issuance of an authorization and the terminal date.
; ECA Procurement Authorizations for Fishery Products, July 1949
: (Comtryjch ae cn) na = "|
Origin i
ete e es “Se é Fosseesions Bel gium-Luxembourg B
Ireland 400,000
an “= sSSs
fief bisnene [sien
| total ECA F Se RRGERES for Fishery Products, April 1, 1948 - July 31, 1949
Fish, canned U.S.& Possessions & Canada (| United Kingdom, Ireland, 14, 352, 800
Greece, Italy, Bel giun-
_Luxembourg
Bizone & Zone of
Germany & peat
Bizone Germany
Zone
Austria, Bizone & Fr,
of German
Grand Total Authorized .
L/Unless otherwise indicated, the recipient country is the procuring agency, and the gov-
ernment of the participating country or its authorized agents or importers do the pur-
chasing.
On July 7, ECA announced revised procedures for the submission of information
by suppliers of Marshall Plan goods. The procedures, which became effective July l,
1949, and contained in amendments to ECA Regulation 1 governing execution of sup-—
pliers' certificates and invoice-and-contract forms, were initiated after suppli-
ers objected to having all details of their trdnsactions, such as commissions paid,
generally known.
The Council of the Organization for European Economic Cooperation, on July 2,
reached unanimous agreement on the principles upon which the intra-European pay—
ments system for 1949—50 shall be based. The Council has directed the Joint Trade
and Intra—European Payments Committee of the OFEC to submit to the Council a draft
of an Agreement based on these principles. The Council has requested that safe~-
guards be provided in the draft agreement for a healthy expansion of intra—European
trade. It is the purpose of this provision to insure the abandonment of those re-
strictive trade practices which do not correspond to the increasing degree of free—
dom to be achieved in the payments system for 1949-50. It is the view of ECA that
18 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
the principles upon which agreement has been reached make possible an advance to-—
wards breaking down the bilateral trade and payments practices which have become
so prevalent in the postwar economic relations of the participating countries.
Federal Purchases of Fishery Products
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY, May 1949: Purchases of fresh and frozen fish by
the U. Se Army, Navy, Marine Corp, and Air Force for military feeding during May
1949 amounted to 1,234,229 pounds (valued at $393,676). This was slightly less
than in April 1948 when 1,386,475 pounds ($487,851) were purchased, and a little
below the May 1948 total of 1,261,261 pounds ($429,774). Purchases for the first
five months in 1949 totaled 6,574,933 pounds ($2,214,499), compared with 6,514,321
pounds ($2,414,208) for the corresponding period the previous year.
Fishery Biology Notes
"ALBATROSS III": Haddock Tagged on Georges and Browns Banks (Cruise 23):
Over 1,200 haddock were tagged on Georges and Browns Banks by the Service's scien-
tists ean the Albatross III during June 23-29. This is the first large-scale
haddock tagging operation accomplished on any of the important offshore banks.
The purpose of this work was twofold: first, to determine whether haddock which
pass through the meshes of the recommended large-mesh cod end will actually sur—
vive to a more marketable size; second, to learn more about the migration of the
fish on these banks,
The fish were tagged by attaching two celluloid discs, one red and one white,
to the left gill cover. The white discs were numbered serially, so that each fish
was measured and its physical condition noted. A reward of $1.00 will be paid to
any person finding one of these tags and returring it to the Fish and Wildlife
Service, Information on the exact location where the fish was caught and its
length, returned with the tag, is desired. Fishermen have been advised to be on
the lookout for these tagged fish, as the success of the experiment depends on
the number returned.
Data from these tagging experiments will enable the scientists to determine
the practicability of using nets with larger mesh to save many small fish and to
study the movements of the haddock over the banks and between the banks.
Study of the Escapement of Fish Through Larger-Meshed Nets (Cruise 24): A
series of experiments to study the escapement of fish through larger-meshed nets
were started aboard the Service's research vessel during July 11-19. The purpose
of this study was to find ways of saving the large number of small fish which are
destroyed by commercial fishing. It has been estimated that over 13,000,000 had-
dock alone are destroyed. If these fish had been left another year, approximately
18,000,000 pounds of edible fish food would have been added to the nation's supply.
The studies were made to determine the number and size of all marketable kinds
of fish that would escape through meshes 1 to 14 inches larger than the mesh in
present use. The Albatross III made alternate tows, first with a net of regular
commercial mesh and then with a net of the larger mesh. The number of fish caught
ee ee ee
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 19
and the size of these fish were determined by the biologists. All the more import—
ant species of fish were caught, including haddock, cod, rosefish, yellowtail, and
hake. Observations were made on various parts of Georges Bank and in the South
Channel area. The data collected are now being analyzed to determine the precent
of each size of fish that escape and to relate these to the commercially—acceptable
sizes and weights.
Demonstration Cruise (Cruise 25): The Albatross III made a demonstration
cruise from Boston, Mass., on July 21. The purpose of the cruise was to acquaint
members of the fishing industry and other interested conservation officials with
the vessel, itsmethods, and the program of research used by the North Atlantic
Fishery Investigations.
GULF OYSTER INVESTIGATIONS: The Chief of the Service's Gulf Oyster Inves—
tigations, Pensacola, Florida, reported in July that the experiences of the past
few months have helped to select certain broad objectives for the future program
of the laboratory. These goals are:
1, Investigation of the ecology of the conch, Thais, in an effort to obtain
more effective means of control;
2, Studies on certain parasites of oysters, such as clams, sponges, Polydora
and protozoans, to determine their economic importance;
3. Determination of local setting and growing rates in conjunction with physical
and hydrographic surveys in order to rehabilitate local oyster reefs which
are now nearly barren;
4, Studies on the morphogenesis of oysters with the objective of creating
selective strains;
5. Continued studies in the area affected by the Bonne Carre Spillway to
localize the hydrographic factors responsible for mortalities and low
growth rates;
6. Continued assistance to the Conservation Departments of the Gulf States
in developing their oyster culture practices,
PERCENTAGE OF LAKE
MICHIGAN LAKE TROUT SCAR-—
RED BY LAMPREYS: The
Service's Fishery Research
Biologist stationed at
Ann Arbor, Michigan, has
just completed his analysis
of the 1948 data supplied
by commercial fishermen of
the State of Michigan waters
of Lake Michigan on the
percentage of scarred fish
in their catches. His
analysis reveals that the
SEA LAMPREY —
(Petromyzon marinus)
percentage by weight of Mouth of Sea Lamprey
lake trout of marketable THE SEA LAMPREY, WHICH FEEDS ON THE BLOOD AND FLESH OF FISH,
size bearing sea lamprey 1S PREYING ON THE LAKE TROUT OF THE GREAT LAKES AND 1S
5 : THREATENING THAT F!SHERY.
scars increased from 31 in
1947 to 41 in 1948.
20 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
PRELIMINARY REPORT ON TUNA FISHING TRIP OFF CENTRAL AMERICA
(APRIL 23-JUNE 9, 1949)
INTRODUCTION: In the spring of 1949, a trip was planned to provide more field
data on Pacific tuna for life-history and population studies. Accordingly, a
cruise was made on the tuna clipper M/V A Alphecca through the courtesy of a West Coast
tuna canner and the ship's master. y
The Alphecca is a 128-foot wooden—hulled vessel (ex~Navy YP) capable of carry—
ing 260 tons of fish, and on this trip carried nine fishermen, in addition to the
skipper, the engineer, and the cook.
Although the cruise was from April 23 to June 9, the actual fishing was con=
fined to the month of May, and nearly 250 tons of fish, primarily yellowfin, were
brought aboard. The methods of fishing, catching and caring for bait, mainten-
ance of the ship, and so on were essentially the same as those described by Godsil
(Calif. Div. Fish & Game, Fish Bull. No. 51).
BAIT FISHING AND HANDLING: Since the Alphecca planned to fish south of the
Gulf of California in waters warmer than 75° F., anchovettas were chosen for bait.
Bait was taken at Macapule, Mexico, a sandy beach on the mainland side of the Gulf
of California a hundred or so mlleg in from the mouth, (25° 20' N. Lat., 108° 39!
W. Long.). Bait was plentiful and easily located near boils of mud and sand and
an occasional jumping fish. In three days, 3,600 scoops of bait had been brought
aboard. On the evening of the third day, the Alphecca set out for the fishing
grounds further south. The bait began milling immediately in the tanks. The mor—
tality throughout the trip was not excessive. The dead were siphoned off the bot—
tom daily for a short period, and the floating dead were continually removed with
a dip net. The fish were fed ground tuna or skipjack every few days from May 21,
the first successful day of fishing, to May 28, three days before the last ancho—
vetta was gone. As the brine wells were needed for tuna, the bait was transferred,
scoop by scoop, to the bait tanks. On the morning’ of the last day of fishing,
150 scoops were transferred to another boat. That evening the remaining 150 to
200 scoops went over the side to provide space for the 25 tons of fish on deck.
TUNA FISHING: The principal area fished was centered approximately 140 miles
off the coast of El Salvador. The catch in this area was composed almost exclusive—
ly of two-pole yellowfin, i.e., yellowfin from 30 to 100 pounds. These schools
were most often found under porpoise of the type fittingly called "spinners" by
the fishermen. The porpoise jumped ten or fifteen feet in the air, spinning as
they went. Schools of porpoise and fish were often immense. Birds were usually
seen working over the fish, but they were scattered and not numerous.
Twice the Alphecca left this area, proceeding northward to waters forty to
sixty miles off central Nicaragua. Here the fish were smaller; one—pole yellow—
fin and oceanic skipjack. Few porpoise were seen in this area, and the schools
were located by the presence of birds or by ripples in the water.
BIOLOGICAL DATA OBTAINED: Morphometric data were taken on 40 yellowfin rang-
ing in total length from 399 mm. to 1568 mm. (153-62 inches). The size of the six
oceanic skipjack measured was from 507 mm. to 669 mm. (20-25 inches). One 545 mm.
black skipjack was measured. Most of the fish taken for measurements had broken
keels and frayed fins. Scale samples were taken from each yellowfin measured.
Owing to the speed with which fish were stowed in the wells, it was impossi-~
ble tc secure length measurements of 50 fish from each school.
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 21
A series of smaller yellowfin tuna and oceanic skipjack were preserved.
The gonads of at least ten fish per week were examined, Generally speaking,
the males of both oceanic skipjack and yellowfin tuna were ripe. Testes were firm,
usually with milt running in the central duct. During the last two weeks of May,
several large male (over 1350 mm. total length) yellowfin were observed to be
turning ripe. The gonads from three female oceanic skipjack taken in the middle
of May were completely spawned out. The ovaries were enlarged, hollow, and flabby.
Ovaries of the remaining female oceanic skipjack and yellowfin tuna were firm but
not turgid, and hollow with no ova visible. Apparently they were about to enter
or were just past the ripe or running-ripe condition. Surface plankton hauls were
made whenever possible in areas where these fish were taken, but no eggs or juven—
iles were taken in the net.
COLLECTION OF SPECIMENS: Fourteen night-light fishing stations were occupied.
Collecting began soon after dark and lasted from two to four hours. Large squid
were usually present during these periods and often caused the collections to be
rather meager. They formed a hemisphere around the light and fed on fish or the
larger invertebrate material that collected around the light. From five of these
stations in both fishing areas, series cf fish were taken which are externally
strikingly similar to the juvenile yellowfin tuna and juvenile oceanic skipjack
described from specimens taken 200 miles further: south on the Central American
coast by Schaefer and Marr (U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Fishery Bulletin No. 44).
Positive identification awaits a more critical examination. Also still in need of
a more positive identification is a series resembling juvenile frigate mackerel as
described by Schaefer and Marr, (Pacific Science, October 1948). These are pre~
sent in most of the collections. The number of species in these collections will
probably be between 15 and 20.
FEEDING OF TUNA: Material taken from stomachs or regurgitated on deck by tuna
included squid, crustacea, and small fishes, The tuna were often seen feeding on
flying fish, sometimes catching them in mid-air, At such times few fish could be
held near the boat with anchovettas and the fishing was generally slow. Flying
fish were recovered from the mouths and stomachs of the few taken. The deck hose
was found to be a handy tool for washing out stomachs.
ete. —Giles W. Mead, Jr.
PROGRAM OF THE N.C. INSTITUTE OF FISHERIES RESEARGH
The program of the North Carolina Institute of Fisheries Research was out-—
lined in its Third Semi-Annual Report which covers the period from July 1 to Decen-
ber 31, 1948. The program consists of scientific research, technological research,
cooperation with other agencies, and education.
Under scientific research, some work has already been done on a survey of the
ocean bottom off the North Carolina coast to ascertain the types of bottom suitable
for shrimp trawling and the areas where shrimp are found. As a result of this pro-
ject, charts containing this data have been made for the fishermen in the Southport
area. Offshore commercial fishing trawlers have been cooperating by reporting the
absence or presence of shrimp on the offshore fishing grounds.
22 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
Besides the study of offshore shrimping grounds, an investigation of inshore
waters for shrimp as well as fish has been started. Rate of growth, precentage of
the different species of shrimp in the commercial catch, percentage of shrimp cap—
tured below the commercial size, the time of local appearance, and sex ratio are
being studied. The Institute failed to develop any evidence pointing to the need
of restractive measures so far as conservation is concerned. It has definite evi-—
dence that, at least as far as last season is concerned, there is no dependence
upon the sound shrimp by the ocean shrimp.
Shellfish investigations have been outlined to cover the following:
Suitability of bottoms as oyster planting areas;
Studies of the spawning, setting and growth rates of oysters;
ile
2.
3. The natural enemies of oysters in North Carolina waters;
A.
Utilization of the heavy set in the Beaufort-Morehead area
to supply seed for localities in Pamlico Sound;
5, Studies on the spawning, setting and growth rates of clams;
6, Research on the digestive process of oysters and clams;
7, A survey to determine the presence and abundance of the
the various molluscs which are of commercial importance
to other areas.
The program on finfish has not yet been well defined. Data on sizes, species,
seasons, water salinity and temperatures are being collected on the offshore fish—
ing grounds. The destruction of small fish by trawlers is under investigation,
and concurrently a census will be taken of immature fish of commercial signifi-
cance which are found in the sounds. The fishing of sturgeon, which has been ban-
ned in the Cape Fear River for several years, was under study in 1948 and further
observations are planned for 1949.
The technological investigations are divided between a study of marketing
methods used in North Carolina, net deterioration, and experimental gear work.
The study on marketing includes the methods of handling fish and shellfish in local
wholesale and retail markets, channels of distribution, sales methods, types of
packages used, and consumer demand.
The Institute has been cooperating with other State agencies as well as with
the Federal Government on shad migration investigations, study of offshore ocean—
ographic conditions, and the compilation of a list of all published references on
North Carolina's commercial fish and shellfish.
Under education, the Institute expects to aid:
1. High schools, by furnishing information, pictures, and slides
on the types of marine life found in the State;
2. Colleges, by loaning its facilities for research work and for
collecting;
3. Fishermen, by demonstration of net or gear assembly and mending,
ey
Fears
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 23
REPORT OF PACIFIC OCEANIC FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS, JUNE 1949
AKU ABUNDANT IN JUNE IN MARIANAS: Aku were abundant during June near Saipan
and Tinian Islands in the Marianas, according to information released in Honolulu
July 25 by POFI of the Service. Two small sampans now fishing at Saipan were able
to land as much as 10,000 pounds per day during June. In July 1946, an average of
approximately 3,000 pounds per boat per day were caught.
A biologist of the staff found on a recent trip to the Marianas that there is
no fish processing industry in that area at the present time. Fishing is done to
supply the fresh market only. Plans are being made by Saipan residents to initiate
a small canning venture in the future so that a larger portion of the rich fisheries
resources of the central Pacific may be utilized.
COLLECTION OF JAPANESE TUNA LITERATURE: The program of collecting Japanese
scientific papers dealing with research into tuna fishing and the habits of tuna
has been virtually completed.
Much of the material was obtained in Japan by a POFI reconnaissance team while
working under the auspices of SCAP, and the remainder came from U. S. Navy projects
and the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service's library in Washington, D. C. The collec—
tion, which will remain in Honolulu, is believed to be the most complete outside
of Japan. Such material as will be of value to research and industry will be trans—
lated by the POFI staff.
SERVICE FILM CHOSEN FOR INTERNATIONAL CINEMATOGRAPHIC ART EXHIBITION
The newest Fish and Wildlife Service film, It's the Maine Sardine (16 mn,
sound color), has been entered in International competition at the 10th Internation—
al Exhibition of Cinematographic Art, the Department of the Interior announced on
June 28. This film, produced by the Service in cooperation with the Maine Depart—
ment of Sea and Shore Fisheries and the Maine Sardine Packers Association, depicts
the catching of sardines off the Maine coast and the packing processes used in local
canneries. ~
The selection was among the 13 made by the Department of State's Motion Picture
Review Committee from more than 500 Government educational films. Another Interior
film, California and Its Natural Resources, also was chosen.
Sponsored by the Italian Government, the Exhibition will be held in Venice,
August 11-September 1. About 20 countries besides the U. S. will be represented.
_g
USE OF CALIFORNIA SARDINES FOR REDUCTION PURPOSES LIMITED
California sardine processors will not only operate during the 1949-50 season
under the lowest reduction quota in State history, but may find the percentage al-
location a further deterrent to reducing whole fish into oil, meal, and pet food,
according to the June 29 Outdoor California of the California Divieion of Fish and
Game.
2h COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
At their June meeting in Los Angeles, fish and game commissioners allowed
80 percent of the stringent 50,000-ton reduction quota to straight reduction plants,
and 20 percent, or 10,000 tons, to reduction plants operated in connection with
food canneries.
The allocation for the coming season (the sardine season opens August 1) is
now in effect.
Setting of sardine reduction rules is the Commission's only regulatory power
over the sardine industry. A legislative law also requires that at least ih
cases of sardines be packed for human food use from each ton of fish processed.
A
SS.
a
U.S. PACK OF CANNED ANCHOVIES, 1948
The 1948 pack of canned anchovies amounted to 66,994 standard cases valued at
$755,458 to the packers. Compared with the previous year, this was a decline of
49 percent in volume and 45 percent in value. The entire 1948 pack was canned by
23 firms in the Monterey and San Pedro district of California. Canning of anchovies
Table 1 - Pack of Cenned Anchovies by Size of Can Table 2 - Pack of Canned Anchovies by
Style of Pack, 1948
(Quantity & Value 56 Canners)
, style of Pack ___|Stt.Ceses| ae
a omnial Al cccccccce ’ OG
8 ozs. net ee =m = tomato salice .. Boies
8 ozs. net (96 cans
16 ozs, net (48 cans) ... | 4/1 |
Total, actual cases ... | } in California is of recent origin.
i The packing of these fish was
D/includes @ small pack of cans containing 4 ozs, undertaken in 1947 as a result of
each, packed 48 cans to the case, the pilchard fishery. In that
Note: Standard cases represent the pack of 48 cans of| year, the California pack, and
16 ozs. each, that of one firm in Washington,
samounted to 130,119 standard cases,
valued at $1,377,275.
U.S. PACK OF CANNED ANIMAL FOOD FROM FISHERY PRODUCTS, 1948
The 1948 pack of fishery products for
animal food amounted to 1,323,808 standard Table 1 — Pack of Canned Animal Food
cases, valued at $6,971,003 to the canner. com Fishery Products, 1948
Compared with the previous year, this was Quantity & Value _to Canners
an increase of 45 percent in volume and 77
percent in value. The 1948 pack was’ the
largest and most valuable in histroy. Near-
ly 60 percent of the production was canned Callies meat
in California and all but 1 percent of the Total ..cces
remainder in Maine and Massachusetts. An-— : “Standard cases" represent the
imal food was canned in 6 plants in Massa— various-sized cases converted to the
chusetts, 2 plants each in Maine and Wash- ‘Piers of 48 cans, each containing
ington, 1 plant each in New York and Vir-
ginia, and 4 plants in California.
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 25
Table 3 = Pack of Canned Animal Food
site mishery, Products, eee
Table 2 - Pack of Canned Animal Food from Fishe i ~ | Price Per |
Products, 1948 (By Size of Can & Case--Quantity eee St Case
& Value to Canners ;
Size of C — Case Sebi laeeresl| Galva lsal
U.S. PACK OF GANNED FISH ROE AND CAVIAR, 1948
The domestic pack of canned fish roe and caviar in 1948 amounted to 50,629
standard cases (48 one—pound cans), valued at $1,473,320 to the packer. This was
a decline of 3 percent in volume and 10 percent in value compared with the previous
fable 1 - Pack Fish Roe and Caviar, 1948 (Quantity and Value _to_Cannsr)
Alewife ..ccccceccccce=
HOLTAN Ro ctelsleieveieic/sicle/s)viers ©
Mackerel ..ccoccceccccce
Shad eeeee@oeoeerse22e280G0
$ 401,416
35, 883
% ,370
208 079
Ma, 7, Va. 14, N. C. 9
Me, 2, Mass, 1
Mass. 4, Md, 3
Md, 1, Va, 1, Fla. 1,Wash.1,
Ore, 7, Calif. 2
66
3,075 67.67
Mise,, incl, trout,
pollock, yellowtail,
and menhaden .,...0cc20
Caviar:
Whitefish eeeeoeeeosoeaeo
Mise., incl. salmon,
sturgeon and carp ....
Total edible roe
and cavier occ...
17.45
45.09
180. 80
45,466 | Mass, 1, Va. 1, N. G1
N. Y. 4, Wise. 1
No Yo 20 Varo)
Ore, 1
ote; "Standard cases" represent the various-sized cases converted to the equivalent of
48 cans of 16 ozs. each,
year. Alewife roe accounted for nearly half the total pack, and over one-fourth
of the value. Although the volume of the New York pack was less than in many of
the states, the value was much greater due to the high value of the whitefish,
salmon, and sturgeon caviar canned in that State.
26 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
Table 2 =< Pack of Canned Fish Roe & Caviar
By States, 1948 (Quantity & Value to Canner
_————————————————ehseess——sseseseesesesess_ nn
No, of Plants
Exclusive of | Standard
Dup Liseees Cases
Table 3 - Pack of Canned Fish Roe
é one. 1939-1948
(Qua & Value to Canner) __|
Price Per
allen ae pases os Bee,
U.S. PRODUCTION OF MARINE ANIMAL OILS, 1948
The 1948 United States and Alaska production of marine-animal oils amounted
to 17,045,390 gallons, valued at $30,861,522 to the producers. This was an in-
Gulf Coastst including Alaska
15,320
ey 42,484 4
Herring .....e00+6 ° 90, 548 74,681 | 3,541,267 | 3,918,173) 3,631,815 | 3,992,854
Menhaden .......0¢ - | 8,763,939 | 10,132,179 = = 8,763,939 | 10,132,179
Pilchard oecvcices es - - 2,328,572| 2,457,858| 2,328,572| 2,457,858
Salmon
EGibVe) relcciyelvele - - 22,065 77,228 22,065 77,228:
Industrial ....ce 7 = 94, 264 Bo 150 94, 264 93,150
Tana and mackerel , - = 660,515 622,110 660,515 622,110
Whale:
SPETMdersetlee cereale
Miscellaneous¢/....
TOGAlWelelelaiclsleielate
From Livers and
Viscera of:
Cod. @Ccteos207000080 196,685 529, 26 a7 ae, 196,685 529,426
senna J 3/434,010
ete
eeorcoeeee
95
l/Includes a email Eezodacever of burbot liver and unclassified a= sit in Minnesota.
2/Includes the production of alewife, rosefish and unclassified body oils on the East Coast;
and unclassified body oils on the West Coast.
3/East and West Coast production combined,
4/Includes the production of burbot, halibut, rockfish and swordfish liver oils on the East
Coast; and halibut, lingcod, sablefich. mixed liver oils and viscera oils on the West Coast.
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Hl
Sa Oils Liver
Price Per Price Per
Gallons | Gallon
T 3
5 045,
16, 732, 892
20,030,935
: 24,501, 852
17,771, 346 28,322,975
14, 270.8 14, 841,970| 23,116, 216
12,516, 206 |1, 10,061,396] 20,579, eh
ents 4,986 | 23, 283.6
936, 6. >» 108 Ae 4, ep 33
16, 221 40 1
ogoo00000rr
BYRIGSE R
crease of 2 percent in volume, but a decline of 3 percent in value compared with
the previous year. Menhaden oil accounted for over half of the production and
nearly one-third of the value; fish liver oils accounted for only 4 percent of
the volume, but represented 40 percent of the total value.
U.S. PRODUCTION OF MARINE PEARL—SHELL BUTTONS, 1948
The 1948 production of marine pearl—shell buttons (produced principally from
imported shells) amounted to 4,974,073 gross, valued at $8,587,011 to the manu-
Table 2 = U.S.Production of Marine
Shell Buttons, 1939-48
fable 1 - U. ou EESREEIE of Marine Pearl-Shell
: ee
Gross Value
1 2, 225,51
1 4,974,073 | 1.73 | 8,587,011 |
ll Produced ainel pally, from imported shells.
facturers. This was an increase of 44 percent 7,424,769
in volume and 52 percent in value compared with
1946, the most recent previous year for which
data are available, While the 1948 production
of marine pearl—shell buttons was considerably
below the normal prewar yield, the value was the largest in histroy. Manufactur-—
ers received an average of $1.73 per gross for their 1948 production compared with
‘an average of 58 cents in 1939. Marine pearl-shell buttons were manufactured in
4 plants in New York, 12 in New Jersey, 3 in Connecticut, 2 in Pennsylvania, 1 in
Maryland and 2 in Iowa.
6,830,628
1 Q
[l/Data not available,
28 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
U.S. PRODUCTION OF FRESH-WATER MUSSEL-SHELL PRODUCTS, 1948
The 1948 production of fresh-water mussel-shell buttons amounted to 6,810,135
gross, valued at $5,396,511 to the manufacturers. In addition, crushed shell
Table 1 - Production of Fresh-Water Mussel-Shell Products, 1948
(Quantity & & Value to Manufacturer
[ Product | | Towa & Missouri, N. A ses _& I —
Quantity eae ty
Buttons eovccve 5, » 904 10 135 $5, 39 6 »511
Crushed shell
poultry feed . 2/850
Lime @ee@oovovere0 1,368
Chips, shells
& novelties ..
Toitaliveletettets
poultry feed, lime and
Table 2- U, S. Production of Fresh-Water Missel-Shell Products,| Chips, and novelties
1939-48 (Quantity & Value to Manufacturer) valued at $50,610 were
"| produced by button man—
ufacturers. While the
production of buttons
was far below normal,
their average value,
which amounted to 79
cents per gross, was
the highest in history,
and was over three times
the average price re-—
ceived in 1939.
Mussel shells pur-
chased during the year
amounted to 9,657 tons,
valued at $452,343.
Shells were taken in 13 states in the Mississippi River and Great Lakes region.
The producing states in the order of their importance were: Tennessee, which con—
tributed 40 percent of the total quantity; Kentucky, 23 percent; Alabama, 19 per—
cent; Indiana, 8 percent; Arkansas, 5 percent; Illinois, 4 percent; and Iowa,
Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, South Dakota and Texas, 1 percent.
EE
WHOLESALE AND RETAIL PRICES
As of June 14, 1949, the wholesale index for all commodities continued to drop
and was 0.3 percent lower than on May 17 this year, and 6.5 percent lower than on
June 15 last year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of
Labor. All foods, however, increased slightly and the index was 0.2 percent higher
than on May 17 this year, but was still 9.4 percent lower than on June 15, 1948.
There was a big drop in the canned salmon wholesa]2 prices during June due to
attempts by wholesalers to clean up their stocks of the 1948 pack. Pink canned
——
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 29
salmon prices were 21.8 percent below May and 15.9 percent lower than in June 1948.
Canned red salmon prices were 9.6 percent lower than in May this year and June last
year.
________—drWhoilesale an end ReteliEe 7 ape Prices
Eorernem Mey 17,1305
Ee 8 + 0.2
Canned salmon, Seattle;
Pink, No. 1, Tall $ per doz. cans
Red, No. 1, Tall do
Cod, cured, large shore,
Gloucester, Mass, $ per 100 lbs.
Retail: (1935-39 = 100)
foods
Fresh, frozen and canned
Fresh and frozen
Canned salmon:
Pink
Retail food prices rose slightly in June and as of June 15 the all-foods index
was 0.9 percent higher compared with May 15, but 4.6 percent lower than on June 15
a year ago. Fishery products did not follow the same trend as all foods. The re-
tail index for fresh, frozen, and canned fishery products was 0.9 percent below
May 15 this year, but 4.4 percent higher than on June 15, 1948. The fresh and fro-—
zen index followed the same trend except that it was only 0.2 percent higher than
the corresponding period a year ago. Canned pink salmon retail prices also contin-—
ued to drop and were 0.8 percent lower than on May 15, but were still 12 percent
above June 15 last year.
30 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
= FOREIGN —
It is estimated that the shark catch and
the production of vitamin—rich eer oil continued to decline in 1948, according
to an April 18 report from the American Embassy at Buenos Aires. Trade sources
place the total catch of shark at around 6,000 metric tons as compared with 6,600
tons in 1947. In 1946, the catch was estimated to exceed 10,000 tons.
—>S}$=
Production of shark liver oil in 1948 was calculated at 195 metric tons,
compared with 250 tons in 1947. This estimate is based on the exports of 181
tons and the domestic use of approximately 12 tons during the past year.
Taking an overall average of 75,000 U. S. P. units per gram, the production
would approach the equivalent of around 15 trillion units of vitamin A. The aver—
age potency has previously been about 60,000 units per gram, factor 1894. One
of the leading shark liver oil exporters states that not only has the potency
yield per gram been unusually high for the 1948 catch, but the quality has been
exceptionally good. Argentina has recently taken steps to assure the quality
of the shark liver oil for exportation.
The southern shark fishing season has been very poor due to difficulties in
locating sufficient numbers of sharks. Fishing crews have found it virtually im—-
possible to take paying catches of sharks near Mar del Plata and, as a result, have
not only extended their fishing farther south, but have been forced to go as far
as 65 miles to sea. The Ministry of Agriculture reports that although strict laws
against taking small sharks are in effect, there appears to be a considerable
amount of disregard for these regulations by fishing crews.
.
It is estimated that a total of about 22 metric tons or 1.5 trillion units
of shark liver oil was produced during the December 1948-April 1949 period (south-
ern fishing season). Only 60 percent has been traded for export to date, the
other 40 percent remaining in the producer's hands.
With the closing of the southern
shark season, fishing activities are
at a minimum until the Mar del Plata
and Pategones season starts around the
first week in July. Between April and
July only limited quantities of low po—
Shark Liver oy Prices (F,0.B, Buenos Aires)
i &
tency oil, obtained primarily from fe-—
male sharks taken in the Mar del Plata—
Necochea district, will be available.
During 1948, over 180 metric tons
were exported as compared with 334 tons
0,000-50,000 units .........
0, 000-70 ,000
0,000-80 ,000
,000--90 ,000
I90,000-100,000 "
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 31
in 1947. The United States and France imported 99.1 and 73.3 tons, respectively,
in 1948 as compared with 138.2 and 82.3 tons the previous year.
Local shark liver oil exporters express muchconcern about the present in-
creased threat of synthetic vitamin production to their business. It is possible
that due to the rise in the cost of fishing and general production increases,
Argentine exporters may find it difficult to compete with the new low-cost syn-
thetic oil.
SABELO AND OTHER FRESHWATER FISH OILS AND MEAL: The principal source of
latensis). The trade estimates that a total of around 13,000 metric tons of
sabelo (including other fresh-water fish) were processed during 1948 for oil and
meal. The 1948 oil yield is reckoned to be around 1,500 tons as compared with
2,005 tons the previous year. Meal production during 1948 will approach 1,700
tons as compared with 2,132 in 1947.
The oil obtained from the sabelo is of the crudest type and is used for tan-
ning purposes. The meal is used for poultry feed or fertilizers. Germany has
taken a considerable interest in the oil, importing approximately 900 metric tons
in 1948 and a total of 238 tons during the January~February period of 1949. Hol-
land and Ireland accounted for the greater portion of the balance exported during
1948, taking about 500 metric tons.
WHALE OIL AND MEAL: The production of whale oil, guano and meat meal for
the 1948-49 season amounted to 67,260 barrels or 11,210 metric tons of oil, 4,261
tons of guano, and 269 tons of meat meal, compared with the 1947 production of
8,849 metric tons of oil, 4,754 tons of guano, and 338 tons of meat meal. Around
50 percent of the 1948-49 whale oil production will be exported to England for
margarine, while 25 percent will be sent to Germany, and 25 percent to Denmark.
Apparently the total guano and meat meal exports will be devided equally by England
and Denmark.
During the 1948-49 season, seven vessels of 400 tons each and two transports
of 8,000 tons were used by the Argentine whaling interests.
Late in June 1948 the British Colonial Office granted the principal whaling
company in Argentina a 2l-year lease in South Georgia Island in the Antartic.
As a result of this grant, whaling interests have caused considerable comment
in Argentina with elaborate expansion plans. It has been claimed that the company's
newly equipped plant located in South Georgia Island, which employs approximately
100 Argentines and 300 Norwegians, coupled with the new 23,000 ton SS Juan Peron
presently under construction in England, will be ready by 1950 to boost the output
of whale oil, guano and meat meal by about three times the present rate. The new
vessel is claimed as the world's largest whale factory ship costing $6,045,000
with an over-all length of 655 feet and will accommodate 27,000 tons of whale oil
and associated products, Argentina has also purchased six new killer boats at a
cost of $583,750 each to be delivered at the same time as the new vessel.
Australia
TO START WHALING OPERATIONS: The Australian Government has decided to start
whaling operations with a shore factory and three chasers at Shark Bay, according
32 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
to the April 1949 Fisheries Newsletter of the Commonwealth Director of Fisheries.
This will enable Australia not only to meet all her own requirements of whale oil
(about 1,800 metric tons a year), but also to develop a valuable export trade.
Operations will begin next year. Legislation will be introduced to enable the
Government to establish a whaling commission to operate this enterprise.
Another whaling company of Perth has been issued a license andis reconstruct—
ing the old whaling station at Point Cloates and will operate in that area.
Qc
Ae . cs
Bulgaria
DOLPHIN FISHING: The organization of dolphin fishing in the Black Sea during
1949 has been entrusted tothe Fishing Section of the Bulgarian Ministry of Forests,
according to an April 30 report from the American Legation at Sofia. The Industrial
Enterprise "Canning Industry" is to buy the entire production of dolphin fat and
fillets from the fishermen at a fixed price. In order to encourage dolphin fishing,
the Government offers the crews certain quantities of food and staples at fixed
prices, and will supply each fisherman with a certain amount of clothing, boots, and
water-proof material for suits.
EDITORS’ NOTE: The dolphin referred to in this news item may be any one of three species of
Delphinus (the mented)
Bizone Germany
COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL FISHING DEVICE: Near Hamburg, Germany, the former Ger—
man Navy minesweeper, R 96, is being fitted with an electrical device to be used
in sea fishing. The device was invented by Dr. Konrad Kreutzer, a physicist who
is responsible for several basic patents on the selenium rectifier. He was led
to his latest invention by his work on electro-shock apparatus during the war,
according to a June 24 consular report from Bremerhaven. :
Dr. Kreutzer reasoned that fish could be caught by placing two electrodes
into the water and putting a varying positive voltage on one electrode. The pos—
itive voltage on this one electrode (the anode) would cause the fish to point
towards it. The varying electric field along the spine of the fish would cause
the tail muscles to contract and relax, moving the tail and propelling the fish
into a net near the anode,
Pecause patents have not yet been obtained on his device, Dr. Kreutzer was
not willing to reveal all details of it. However, he did indicate that in the
experimental model he hopes to test at sea late this summer, the anode will be
incorporated in the fishing net and the cathode rounded to minimize the effects
of electrolysis and kept near the boat. The wave-form of the anode voltage will
be impulsive and approximately triangular, with a sharp rise from null and a much
slower decay. The pulse length will be about 2 milliseconds and the pulse rate
variable from 2-20 per second depending upon the natural wiggling frequency of
the particular type of fish sought. Because of the low electrical resistance of
sea water, the pulse current will be about 10,000 amperes.
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 3)5)
Kreutzer has not made public any quantitive results of his previous experi-
ments but he seems to be convinced of the usefulness of his device, At one time
an American food packer was ready to contribute capital, but the Military Govern—
ment's prohibition on foreign investment in Germany prevented the plan from being
consummated. To complete the equipping of the experimental boat, DM 30,000 (ap-—
proximately $9,000) is to be raised, either from the trawler owners! association
or from public funds. On July 8th, the project will be explained to a group of
representatives of the fishing industry. It is hoped to convince the fishing in-
dustry that the device is sound enough to warrant the investment required.
The details available to date on this German electrical commercial fishing
device have been included in Fishery Leaflet No. 348. Copies of this publication
are available free upon request from the Division of Information, U. S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, Washington.
British East Africa (Tanganyika)
NEW-TYPE TRAWL (SCHATZ): A new-type fishing trawl (similar in certain re-
spects to the Danish floating trawl) has been invented by Friedrich K. Schatz of
Tanganyika, British East Africa, according to a recent report from the American
Consulate at Bremerhaven.
=
The new gear consists of a dragnet, very similar to the customary trawl,
which will catch fish in any depth, i.e., 10, 20, or 50 yards below the surface,
or close to the bottom. The heavy wooden otter boards of the trawls are dis-—
pensed with, as is the third board above the top line which serves to keep the
THE SCHATZ TRAWL SHOWING TWO NETS RIGGED ONE BELOW THE OTHER TO COVER A WIDER AREA. TO THE
LEFT OF THE VESSEL !S THE FLOAT.
34, COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
net wide open. In this way the resistance caused by these boards is eliminated
and a considerably faster pull is accomplished, saving power, and eliminating some
of the wear and tear upon the net, according to the inventor. As only the resis—
tance of the net in the water has to be overcome, the net can be drawn by the power
of a relatively small motor. Nets can be fished on both sides at the same time,
and discharged first on port and them on starboard, as long as the catches are
worth it.
THE DIAGRAM ON THE LEFT SHOWS THE SIDE VIEW AND THE RIGHT DIAGRAM THE TOP VIEW OF TRE FLOAT
WHICH IS PART OF THE SCHATZ TRAWL.
1. TOWING BAR 4. ROLLER
2. STABILITY HORIZONTAL BANDS FOR FLOATS 5. POSITION POLE 7. WALLS OF FLOAT
3. ROLLER TRESTLE 6. VERTICAL BARS
In addition, a device has been developed which indicates rather accurately
the result of the catch. It is even possible to use several nets below each
other so that a greater depth and area can be covered with one drag, depending
on the power of the motor.
The construction consists of a float drawn by a vessel in such a manner that
the net will be dragged through the school of fish. Height and depth adjustment
of the net is done ower the float by a device on board the vessel. As speedily
as the net can be dropped, the float will be put into operation, because the manip-
ulation is quite easy and does not interfere with the operation of casting and
hauling the net. The float will be tuilt in several sizes.
The inventor claims that this new trawl will catch fish that will not get
into a drift net; the vessel can keep near a school of fish until it has been
cleaned up; mackerel fishing in the North Atlantic will be simplified; schools
of fish can be caught which could not be reached formerly because of the great
depths in which they are found; and fishing in heavy weather is made possible.
Fc
—_——
=a
British Guiana
salted fish imported from non-empire sources will be subject to a duty of $1.95
per cwt. (112 lbs:); from empire countries it will enter free of duty, according
to the June 18 Foreign Trade of the Canadian Department of Trade and Commerce..
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 35
Colony of Sarawak
FISHERIES SURVEY: During the past year, the Development Secretary for the
Colony of Sarawak has been working on various aspects of a development program,
including the improvement of the fishing industry, according to a March 10 report
from the American Consulate General at Singapore.
Approval has been given for a survey of the fisheries of Sarawak which com—
menced during the latter part of 1947, continued in 1948, and is still proceeding.
The survey is a necessary step to the preparation of plans to assist the fishing
industry.
The need for an adequate fisheries is most important since many of the people
on the coast depend on fishing for their livelihood andthe Colony is not, at present,
self-supporting in this most important of fcodstuffs which plays such a large part
in the diet of its population. There are good fishing grounds in the immediate
vicinity of Sarawak. Most of the fishing now carried out is by elementary and
outmoded measures and methods of drying, curing, and marketing are wasteful and
inefficient.
<>
Cyprus
DIFFICULTIES OF FISHING INDUSTRY: An article appearing in the Cyprus Mail
calls attention to the danger facing the Cyprus fishing industry, according to an
April 19 report from the American Consulate at Nicosia. The number of fishing
trawlers in Cyprus has increased to 10, of which 3 are in Limassol, and the average
daily catch rarely exceeds 420 to 560 pounds, of which only 25 percent is com—
posed of first-—quality fish sold at 33 cents per pound. The balance is sold as
second—quality fish at 11 cents per pound.
At this rate, and without allowing for loss due to holidays, bad weather,
depreciation of equipment and engine trouble, there is only a small margin of
profit, since the daily operating expenses are about $80.00 per trawler.
In view of the heavy cost of maintaining such trawlers, several owners are
reported to be contemplating anchoring their vessels for an indefinite period,
extending efter the "closed season" (no fishing is permitted in June, July,and
August). Moreover, a further reduction of the supply of fish is anticipated,
owing to competition from foreign trawlers. Italian, Arabian and Greek fishing
vessels regularly visit Cyprus and are granted fishing licenses for Cyprus waters.
SS
Dominican Republic
CONCESSION FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FISHERIES: A contract for the development of
ployees during the first year of the contract, was signed May 26, 1949, according
to a June 25 consular report from Ciudad Trujillo. The contract was subsequently
approved by the Dominican Congress and promulgated June 9, 1949.
36 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. ll, No. 8
The company benefiting from the contract is organized as a Dominican corpor-—
ation, Compania Pesqueria Dominicana, C. Por A» (Dominican Fisheries Company) , with
an American as the president and treasurer.
The company will carry on exploration of fisheries possibilities in Dominican
waters for the development of a large-scale export industry in shrimp, spiny lob—
sters end shark products, as well as other fishery products. The objective of the
company is to reach a weekly production for export, after the first year of the
contract, of 100,000 pounds of fish and 1,000,000 pounds of shrimp. At current
prices, the annual value of the catch would be about $11,000,000.
The enterprise would include the construction of packing houses, wharves, an
ice plant, and other installations for a major project. The company would under—
take also to supply fish for the domestic market and to provide local fishermen
with assistance in the form of fishing vessels and equipment; and establish fish
hatcheries.
General exoneration from import duties and taxes in connection with the com—
pany's operations is granted under the contract. The Dominican Government retains
the right to acquire the company's property at the expiration of the contract at
cost less depreciation. The contract is subject to cancellation at the end of the
first year if the company fails to operate with at least 50 notor vessels and 200
employees ©
Possibilities in the development of commercial fisheries in Dominican waters
have been given serious attention on various cccasions in recent years. Conclus—
ions generally were that opportunities were not particularly favorable. The shore
line in most places drops off steeply to ocean depths. Much of the Dominican coast
is rocky, exposed, and dangerous for small boats. The Samana Bay area, where the
new company plans to carry on its exploration, offers the only extersive area where
there is shoal water favorable to fish propagation and to commercial development of
fisheries. There has been very little development thus far of commercial fishing,
the annual catcn being only about 1,000,000 pounds. Imports of salt fish are im-
portant, valued at about $700,000 in 1947.
Ecuador
PLANS EXPANSION OF FISHING INDUSTRY: The Department of Fishing of the Minis—
try of Economy has announced plans for the stimulation of the domestic fishing in-
dustry, by encouraging domestic consumption of bacalao and shark, abundant in the
Galapagos fishing grounds, according to a July 8 report from the American Consulate
General at Guayaquil. Credits will be given to Ecuadoran fishermen for buying and
improving boats, equipment, etc. and setting up an agency for the purchase and dis—
tribution of fish, at prices reasonable enough that the low-income groups of Ecua—
dor msy take advantage of a larger supply for greater fish consumption.
This plan is still in the project stage, and so far no steps have been taken
for its realization. The government hopes eventually to employ the penal colony
in the Galapagos Islands in this project.
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW SH
Iceland
WHALING OPERATIONS, 1948: In 1948, Iceland resumed whaling operations for
the first time since World War II. The whalirg season, which commenced May 1
and ended October 15, accounted for a total catch of 239 whales, according to a
March 29 Amercian consular report from Reykjavik. A total of 1,500 metric tons
of whale oil was produced, 80 tons of meal, and 1,060 tons of whale meat.
The Icelandic Government bought the whale oil from the whale processing fac—
tory at approximately $443 per metric ton. In 1948, 773 metric tons were export—
ed to Denmark and the Netherlands; 640 tons of meat were exported to the United
Kingdom (27 cents per pound c.i.f.) and 224 tons went to Norway (15% cents per
pound f.0.b.).
EXPANDS FISHING
FLEET: The Government
Fisheries Department
of Madras, India, is
examining the possi—-
bilities for the con—
struction of small
motor boats, fitted
with 5 to 7 hep.
engines, according
to a May 10 American
consular report from
Madras, India. The
price range is re—
stricted to $1,050
to $1,200. This pro-
gram is to assist
fishermen engaged in
marine fishing.
It is also re-
ported that two Dutch
trawlers have been
acquired for the deep
sea fishing fleet in
Bombay e
TYPICAL FISHING VESSEL OF INDIA.
HHH EE
BOMBAY TO EXPAND FISHERIES: An intensive drive to catch more fish is planned
by the Bombay Director of Fisheries, according to a June 1 report from the American
Consulate General at Bombay, India. The Fisheries Department will organize propa—
ganda tours in the coastal villages where fishermen will be taught improved methods
of catching fish and fish preservation. The formation of fishermen's cooperatives
will be encouraged and these will be provided with the necessary fishing equipment.
38 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
The Provincial Government contemplates purchasing refrigerated vans and loaning
them to the cooperatives to facilitate transportation of fish to consumer markets.
HHH HH
GOVERNMENT URGED TO ESTABLISH FISHING STATIONS: Indian fishing experts urge
the Government of India to establish fishing stations at Cochin, Visakharatnam,
Orissa, and Calcutta, according to a May 24 American consular report from Madras.
Staffed by experts, these stations would direct exploratory voyages and help pro—
fessional fishermen modernize their boats and fishing methods. All four stations,
would be equipped with cold storage plants; in addition, a prawn (shrimp) cannery
is planned at Cochin. Government expenditures are estimated at $5,670,000, while
operational catches are estimated at $2,820,000 per year.
6
Italy
YUGOSLAVIA PERMITS ITALIAN FISHERMEN TO FISH IN ADRIATIC SEA: Italy and
Yugoslavia have recently concluded a two-year agreement settling the question
of fishing in the Adriatic Sea, according to an April 21 report from the American
Embassy at Belgrade. Under this agreement, Italian fishermen are allowed to fish
in four zones off the Yugoslavian Adriatic coast with an agreed number of vessels,
and in return, Italy will pay Yugoslavia an amount (approximately $1,275,000 during
the first year) to be determined each year. The Agreement will be considered
automatically renewed unless denounced by either party.
This Agreement satisfies the needs of the fishing population on the Italian
side of the Adriatic where there is practically no fish stocks.
Resources Section has estimated Japanese fisheries production for 1950 at
7,011 ,000,000 pounds and 7,108,000,000 pounds for 1951 as compared with 5, 700,000,000
pounds in 1948 and an estimated 6,800,000,000 pounds this year, according to a
June 27 press release.
Actual production may deviate considerably from the estimates as the result
of biological or oceanographic conditions. As in fisheries in other parts of
the world, the production of the Japanese fisheries, particularly some of the
pelagic species, are featured by sharp fluctuations, the principal causes of
which are variations in environmental conditions affecting spawning and survival
of young and in oceanic conditions affecting the migrations and availability of
marketable fish.
The sardine and herring fisheries, which have been declining in recent years,
are liable to such sharp fluctuations both in abundance and availability. The
conditions affecting the catch of these fish in particular may affect production
significantly for 1950 and 1951.
{
‘
3
if
it ee
August 1949 | COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 39
Since the surrender in 1945, shortages of materials such as nets, twine, and-
rope have limited production seriously. Beginning in 1948 larger quantities of
materials were imported by the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers for the
Japanese fisheries, and in 1949 it is expected that the supplies of such materials
will about meet the minimum requirements for the present SCAP-authorized fishing
area.
By 1950 and 1951 it is expected that there will be no serious shortage of
materials, so that production will reach the maximum which can be obtained from the
present area on a sustained yield basis. Further increases will depend on improve=
ments in sardines and herring, better management of other fisheries to increase
their productivity, and expansion of aquiculture.
New ice manufacturing and ice storage plants have been constructed to in-
crease the over-all daily output of ice by 900 metric tons. This gain of about
6.5 percent over 1948 production will reduce the deficit in ice supply to the
fishing industry from about 350,000 tons in 1948 to about 80,000 tons in 1949.
The incentive for fishermen to use more care in handling fish at sea is in-
creased by the fact that a strict inspection system is being established at all
major landing ports, and a revision of the link system for distribution of fuel
oil is being considered. As soon as the inspection standards and procedures are
firmly established, it is planned that no distribution of fuel oil will be made
in exchange for fish of substandard quality.
Marketing conditions have improved owing to the increase in ice production
noted above, an increase in cold storage capacity, a marked improvement in rail
transportation facilities, and increased capacities in various phases of the fish
processing industry.
The cold storage capacity in Japan is being increased by about 1,800 metric tons.
More than 1,000 tons of this capacity expansion have been completed, and the remain-—
der is expected to be constructed by December 1949. During 1948, 250 refrigeration
cars of 25-ton capacity were constructed and are in operation. The construction of
300 additional 15-ton capacity cars in 1949 is in the planning stage. If this
plan is finalized it will greatly ease bottlenecks existing in rail transportation.
The system used in the United States for accelerating the movement of per-
ishable products trains has been adopted by the Japanese. Reefer cars containing
such perishables as fish are now moved on a fast schedule with a minimum of delay
at switching points. Consequently, fish shipments are arriving at their destina-—
tions in much better condition. Also, a system has been established whereby all
rail cars used for the transport of foodstuffs are. cleaned at regular intervals.
The cars are inspected erequently to insure that the procedure established is
functioning.
Increases in capacity of fish processing facilities have been realized with
the construction or rehabilitation of freezing and cold storage plants, canning
plants, and other processing establishments such as fish meal and fish cake plants.
This permits the routing of a larger portion of the catch to these industries,
thus relieving to some extent the gluts of fresh fish distribution channels, which
have occurred in the. past.
Legislation in the form of the Food Sanitation Act has been promulgated and
is being implemented. About 2,000 inspectors have been assigned to major fish
40 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. &
receiving and shipping ports and are being trainedto grade fishaccording to its
end use.
Fish in prime condition is designated for transport to large consuming areas
which are distant from the point of origin; fish of lower quality is allocated
for consumption in local or nearby areas; and fish unfit for human consumption
is designated as fertilizer.
When this inspection system is firmly established and functioning properly,
it may be expected that price schedules will be adopted to conform to the grades
of fish. This will serve to enccurage the fish market operators to handle the
fish in a proper manner and take cognizance of sanitary requirements.
Facilities for aquatic research in Japan are more numerous and extensive than
in any other country, but research on fish population for the purpose of de-
termining the management regulations needed to maintain high yield is far behind
that in many other countries, both in quantity and quality. However, reorgani-—
zation of the governmental research work has been initiated to provide for better
cordination and attention to conservation problems, and several research programs
on this subject are underway.
The department of the Japanese government having responsibility for fisheries
matters has been reorganized and advanced from the status of a bureau to that
of an agency. This stop should result in more efficient administration and re=
search, inasmuch as one result of the reorganization is the creation of a Division
of Research, This division will. coordinate and supervise all research on fisheries
problems done by the central government.
Cooperative programs for research on the herring and sardine fisheries, which
have declined greatly in recent years, have been undertaken by the central govern=
ment and some of the prefectural research institutions.
The entire educational system of Japan has been reorganized by recent legis-—
lative acts, and many fisheries schools and colleges will be affected.
KREEUH EH
JAPANESE REPORT ON FISHERIES CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT: In a report submitted
by the Japanese Minister of Agriculture and Forestry with reference to the pro—
gram to enforce fisheries regulations, the Minister states that several Japanese
fishing vessels since February 1947 have violated the MacArthur Line, especially
in the eastern China Sea area, according to the July 2 Weekly Summary from the
Natural Resources Section of SCAP. The Minister states that the reason for the
increase of illegal acts is partly due to poor resources within the restricted
fishing grounds and partly due to longing for the former prosperous eastern China
Sea fishing area. In order to maintain strict supervision over the fisheries and
fishing boats, the "Gist of Emergency Counter—Measures for Prevention of Infringe-
ment upon the Authorized Fishing Areas" was drawn up, and all possible efforts
have been made to prevent violation of the MacArthur Line. Posters were distri-
buted to urge fishermen to adhere strictly to the MacArthur Line, and warnings
were issued whenever necessary.
Measures for maintenance of fisheries resources included an order issued
August 7, 1949, which requested Japanese fishing vessels to submit fisheries
statistics and data, in order to estimate the possible catch of fish; a survey
ee ee eb
Se Ne ae ee
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 4d
of aquatic resources in the eastern China Sea to determine the increase or de-
crease in the possible catch of fish in that locality; and action by the Japan—
ese Government (effective March 22, 1949) to reduce the number of fishing boats
by about 30 percent of the total number of the drag—net fishing boats and trawl-
ers in the sea west of Longitude 130° E., so as to secure an equilibrium between
the number of fishing boats and the aquatic resources.
In the future, in order to prevent infringement by Japanese fishing boats in
eastern China Sea, the following measures are proposed by the Government with re-
ference to the supervision of the fisheries:
i, Enforce atrict supervision over fisheries by arranging for several inspection
erafts {funds are to be provided in the budget in the near future in order to
implement this measure;
2. Urge the fishermen to wake up to the need for preventing infringement of the
Macérthur Line; and
3. Direct that fishing boats of more than 50 tons be equipped with radio in-
stallations in order to prevent illegal acts.
With reference to the maintenance of aquatic resources, the following mea—
sures are proposed by the Government:
1, Determine the policy for reducing by about 30 percent the total number of
drag-net fishing boats and trawlers operating in the sea west of Longitude
130° E, and to enforces it beginning July 1, 1949;
2, Plan for keeping the catch fresh and for utilizing it to the best advantage;
and
3. Contime the survey of the aquatic resources in the eastern China Sea,
ORDER ISSUED ON SUPERVISION OF JAPANESE FISHING AREAS: A directive issued
by SCAP on June 30, 1949, to the Japanese Government authorizes the latter to
establish an inspection system for the Japanese fishing area.
The purpose of the inspection system is to enforce measures to prevent Jap—
anese fishing boats from trespassing outside the SCAP authorized fishing area, as
well as other pertinent fisheries regulations issued by SCAP and the Japanese
Government.
Available vessels of the type and size suitable for conducting inspection
duties will be put into immediate operation (unarmed) and provisions will be made
to increase the number of vessels used if the need for such is demonstrated to
be necessary to insure effective enforcement. The Japanese Government is to take
immediate action to carry out all phases of this plan.
Inspection vessels are authorized to operate within the area bounded as fol-
lows:
From a point midway between Nosappu Misaki and Kaigara Jima at ap=
proximately 43° 23° 14" North Latitude, 145° 50' 30" East Longitude; to
43° North Latitude, 146° 30" East Longitude; thence to 45° North Lati-
tude, 165° East Longitude; thence east along the 45° parallel to the
180th meridian; thence south along the 180th meridian to 10° North Lati-
tude; thence west along the 10° North parallel to 132° East Longitude;
thence to 22° North Latitude, 126° East Longitude; thence to 24° North
42 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Viol paket Nopes
Latitude, 122° 30" East Longitude; thence north to 34° North Latitude,
122° 30" East Longitude; thence east to 34° North Latitude, 128° 40!
East Longitude; thence to 40° North Latitude, 135° East Longitude; thence
to 45° 30° North Latitude, 140° East Longitude; thence east to 45° 30°
North Latitude, 145° East Longitude rounding Soya Misaki at a distance
of three (3) miles from shores south along the 145th meridian to a point
three (3) miles off the coast of Moklkaido; thence along a line three (3)
miles off the coast of Hokkaido rounding Shiretoko Saki and following a
mid-channel course through the Nemuro Kaikyo to a point 43° 26% 17"
North Latitude, 145° 48" 03" East Longitude; thence in a southeasterly
direction to the starting point midway between Nosappu Misaki and
Reigara Jima (see map).
In addition, Japanese inspection vessels shall not approach closer than ten
(10) miles to the coast of any foreign country or its island possessions within
the area defined in the preceding paragraph; shall use as a mark the modified
International E instead of the Japanese flag; will not engage in fishing operations
of any kind; shall obtain authorization for each voyage from Commander, United
States Naval Activities, Japan; and will not be vested with police powers.
160°
CWWW GG
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Enna Y
Authorized Japanese Area Authorized for
|
|
tie y
Fishing Area ———— > Inspection Vessels >|
GZ
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ZY
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/
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]
Z
da
VM, APs EH“™”s PEPE EE. G
AREA AUTHOR!ZED FOR OPERATION OF JAPANESE INSPECTION VESSELS OUTSIDE THE AUTHORIZED SCAP
FISHING AREA.
This authorization does not establish a precedent for the operation of in-
specticn vessels in any other area for any subsequent period of time; nor is it
an expression of Allied policy relative to the ultimate determination of natural
jurisdiction, international boundaries, or fishing rights in the area concerned
or in any other way.
cK HHKH EK
P Oe
el de,
oot
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 43
SCAP STATEMENT ON EXTENSION OF FISHING AREA: The chief of Natural Resources
Section of SCAP made the following statement on fishing areas to the Japanese
Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, June 10, 1949, according to the June 18
Weekly Summary of that agency:
"] have received your letter of May 31, 1949, subject:
"Petition for Extension of Fishing Area for the Japanese Trawler
and Drag-net Fisheries in the Eastern China Sea,’ You trans-
mitted with your communication the Cabinet Decision dated
May 10, 1949.
"In that letter you point out some of the problems of
the trawling industry in the East China Sea and request that
favorable consideration be given the petition for the exten-
sion of fishing area decided upon by the Cabinet on May 10, 1949.
"The Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers is well
aware of these problems of the trawling industry. Acting on
his instructions, Mr, Herrington has pointed out frequently
to the fishing industry and government officials the actions
which they must take to meet these problems,
"Japanese fishermen obviously would like to be readmittea
to the high seas to conduct their operations with no restrictions
other than those applying to all nations, ‘The only way that these
fishermen can achieve such an end is by convincing the Supreme
Commander for the Allied Powers and the people of other nations
of these two things.
(1) Japansse fishermen will respect the regulations
and agreements controlling their operations, whether
these regulations are established by the Supreme Con-
mander for the Allied Powers, their own government, or
by international agreement,
(2) Japanese fishermen and their government desire
and are able to prevent over=exploitation of aquatic
resources and to obtain the maximum sustained yield
through adequate research and regulation,
"Such convictions cannot be created by promises and
assurances, They can be fostered only by effective and con-
tinued performance, ‘This requires that Japanese fishermen
and the Japanese Government comply with and enforce regulations
on fishing operations promulgated by the Supreme Commander for
the Allied Powers and the Japanese Government, This also re-
quires that Japan must develop and apply a program involving
adequate research on problems of aquatic productivity and ap-
plication of the results of these studies through regulations
designed to maintain the productivity of aquatic resources,
"Please inform me if you and the other members of the
Cabinet have considered these requirements and what action
you have taken to satisfy them,”
Gs ar Say a ar
SPECIAL AMERICAN MISSICN STUDIES FISHERIES INDUSTRY: A press. conference was
mander for the Allied Powers to study the fisheries industry of Japan, according
to the May 14 Weekly Summary of SCAP's Natural Rescurces Section. The mission
LA COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, Noo. &
was composed of Edward W. Allen of Seattle, Washington, United States Commissioner
on International Fisheries Commission, Frederick M. Bundy of Gloucester, Massachu—
setts, and Donald P. Loker of Terminal Island, California. The latter two are
executives of fishing and fish processing companies.
‘In response to questions about their observations of Japanese fisheries and
SCAP operations, Mr. Allen, acting as spokesman, stated that the Japanese Govern=
ment and fishing industry should plan for the maximum possible sustained yield of
fish from the authorized areas, This policy will not permit destructive fishing,
but should be carried only to the point where subsequent years’ catches will not
be jeopardized.
SCAP's fishery policy has, he stated, not only been of enormous benefit to
Japan but a substantial saving to the American taxpayer. What has been accomplish—
ed since 1945 with the aid of supplies and petroleum supplied by the United States
through SCAP has been truly remarkable. Further progress, however, cannot be ex=
pected without better coordination of research, looking to greater knowledge of
fish populations and points where danger of overfishing may occur.
The mission felt that for the Japanese fishermen to gain the good opinion of
tne people of other nations, the MacArthur Line must be scrupulously observed,
To this end it is believed that patrolling of the line by the Japanese Government
is essential and that SCAP personnel will be necessary to evaluate the reports
and exercise surveillance over the Japanese patrol.
The fisheries of Japan are so important to the economy of the country and to
Japan's international position that the mission felt that the Japanese Government
should consider seriously the raising of the Fisheries Agency to the status of a
Ministry, so that policy matters could be dealt with both on a domestic and inter-
national level as soon as a peace treaty is concluded.
The fisheries of Japan have always bulked large in international affairs of
many nations. Today it appears that many of the old concepts are outmoded and
never again will any nation be permitted to engage in destructive fishing off the
coasts of another. The mission had particularly in mind the fisheries along the
Pacific Coast of the United States and Canada which have been fully developed,
studied, and managed by these countries to maintain their productivity and in
which Japan has no historical interest. Any attempt by Japanese fishermen to en~
ter these fisheries would be aggressively resisted.
"U. S. Special Mission Reviews Japanese Fisheries Situation," Fishery Leaflet
No. 346, is a complete report and is available from the Fish and Wildlife Service,
Washington 25, D. C.
Ke RH
FISHING INDUSTRIES: The Fisheries Agency, Ministry of Agriculture and Fores—
try, submitted the following information on industries derived from fishing in
Japan, according to the May 21 Weekly Summary of the Natural Resources Section of
SCAPs
I, Preparations of Salted Fish and Dried Salted Fish b. Cleaning: Usually fish viscera are removed by
hand, and fish are washed in tubs or tanks.
1. Mode of Fresh Fish Preparations Occasionally salmon intended for salting is
cleaned by a special knife having a pipe in-
a. Scaling: No special machine is used for scaling serted in the handle through which a small
salted fish and dried salted fish in Japan. If stream of water flows and washes away the
scaling is-necessary it is usually done by hand blood and slime,
using a Imife,
August 1949
c. Skinning: Skinning machines are used only for
skinning sea animals and sharks,
type skinning machine is 370,000 ($194 U.S.), and
a large-type machine costs ¥180,000 ($500 U.S.).
2. Salting with Dry Salt or with Pickling Brine
a. Density of brine: 24-35 percent for salted fish,
15-25 percent for dried salted fish, and 3-5 per-
cent for boiled dried fish.
b. Number of days required for pickling in brine:
1 to more than 2,
c. Proportion of salt used to the weight of fresh
fish: 10-35 percent for salted fish, 8-20 per-
cent for dried salted fish, and 2-8 percent for
boiled dried fish,
3. Method of Sun Drying or Through Artificial Driers
a, Drying methods: Few machines are used for making
dried fish, salted dried fish, or boiled dried
fish, except on rainy or cloudy days. Conse-
quently, production in weight of dried fish per
24 hours cannot be estimated. Usually, fish are
dried in the sun from toree to seven days.
b. Main types of driers used:
(1) ‘The Ogura type for drying boiled fish:
or firewood is used for fuel,
Coal
(2) The Saikei type: Daily capacity of 4,900
pounds with four refills, Fuel used is coal
or firewood.
(3) Price of machines in 1947: One machine about
¥150,000 ($417 U.S.); setting up one machine
about ¥30,000 ($83 U.S.).
ce. Cost price (labor and fuel for one ton of dried
fish):
(1) Price for one ton of smoked herring: Labor
¥12,450 ($34 U.S.), fuel ¥5,300 ($15 U.S.).
(2) Price for one ton of boiled dried sardine:
Labor 313,300 ($37 U.S.), fuel ¥102,795
($286 U.S. ).
4. Percentage of Water and Salt in Products Obtained,
and Preserving Duration, and Selling Price in Japan
a, Percentage of Water and Salt:
Kind of Fish Water Salt
ercent (percent)
Salted ...ccccccccccee 50-70 660.2220 §=— 15-35
Salted dried ......00. B50! eslelinis a0 5-10
Boiled dried fish average under 20 percent water
b>, Preserving Duration: For salted fish about 120
days and for dried fish about 15-12 days.
c, Selling Price in Japan:
Producer's Producer's
Selling Price Selling Price
Product en per 80 lbs. $ per cwt.
Boiled dried sardine .......... 3,190 5 11.08 =
Salted dried sardine , 2 2,005 x
80 3.40
Salted sardine ......0c0e 9
Dried herring ..+e.ee+seeeeeee 2,000 __—, 9.30
lote: mversion of values based on official rate of exchange
of 360 Japanese yen equal $1.90 U.S,
P
COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW
Price of a small-
4d
Producer's Producer's
Selling Price Selling Price
Product en per 60 lbs, $ per cwt.
Salted herring ...........+-.00 1,190 ay
1
ail
Dried cuttlefish ..........000- 4,055 16
Salted cuttlefish .. 1,250 4.34
Driedicad)cisiicclecielcicielciscicicice cle 4,450 15.45
Salted dried cod (cut open) .., 4,000 13.
Salted cod (cut open) ......-.. 1,170 4.06
Boiled dried silvery anchovy .. 3,585 12.45
Salted and dried mackerel ..... 4,460 15.49
Salted mackerel ..........e000e 2,795 9.70
Salted and dried mackere]-pile, 2,140 7.43
Salted mackerel-pike .......... 2,070 7.19
Salted bonito ..ccccscecceseeee 3,915 13.60
Salted Alaskan pollock ........ 1,790 6.21
Salted and dried horse mackerel 5,160 17.91
II. Salted Paste rreparation Based on Fish Used by Japa-
nese Army; After the fish is cleaned with water and
its bones and gills removed, the meat is minced by a
meat grinder, ‘The minced fish meat is put into a di-
gestive tank with digestive enzyme and is fermented
at 104° C. for six hours, The fermented fish meat is
conducted from the digestive tank to a filtering tank
and held at about pH, this being obtained by the use
of hydrochloric acid, and then removed to a vapor-
drying machine to be dried at 302° F, and 10 atmos-
pheres. Equipment of a factory normally consists of
two meat grinders, three digestive tanks, one filter-
ing machine, and one vapor-drying machine, Raw ma-
terial used might be shark,
TII.Smoked Fish: Kinds of fish used are salmon, trout,
herring, sardine, turbot, and flounder, Cold smoking
requires about two months and warm smoking abov 10
days.
IV. Fish Meal and Fertilizer
1. Number and Equipment: A total of 322 fish meal plants
was designated by the Japanese Government as of Jan-
uary 1949; 59 fish meal plants are equipped with con-
pressors and artificial drying facilities; 6 fish
meal plants are equipped with modern facilities for
all processes,
At present, only one company is operating actively. Two
other plants will make mchines to order, ‘The average price
lof one machine was ¥450,000 ($1,250 U.S.) as of October 1948.
V. Autolysates of Fish
1, Shiokara (brine-treated fish entrails): Generally,
entrails of skipjack or oriental bonito are used
for making shiokara, After entrails of fish are
washed with water, they are cut into very small
pieces and placed in a tub containing a 30 percent
salt solution stirred often during the first month
while fermenting.
2. Squid Shiokara (brine-treated squids): After squid
are washed with water, they are cut into small pieces
and placed in a tub with a 30 percent salt solution
_and stirred twice a day during the first month while
fermenting. Sometimes yeast is added to aid the
fermentation.
3. Fish Sauce: Fish cut into small pieces are placed in
an enameled or stainless steel tub with 18-19 percent
NaCl, In this case, pH value should be 4-5 and ten-
perature 104°-122° F. When decomposition begins, the
fish is filtered through coarse netting and after
completion of the decomposition again filtered through
closely woven silk gauze or through filtering machine,
end then 1.5 percent of caramel is added.
STAPANESE GOVERNMENT
46 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
Mexico
ADDS CERTAIN FISHING PRODUCTS TO IMPORT PROHIBITION LIST: Effective June 27,
1949, the Mexican Government issued a decree adding 207 items to the list of com—
modities (in effect since July 11, 1947) the importation of which are temporarily
prohibited. No items included in Schedule I of the U. S.-Mexico Reciprocal Trade
Agreement are among these additions, according to the Office of International Trade,
U. S. Department of Commerce.
The fishery products, with Mexican tariff numbers and descriptions, included
in the list are:
Tariff No, :
1.2.09 Fish, salted, smoked, preserved with salt or otherwise,
1.40. 29 Manufactures of shell, coral or mother-of-pearl of all
kinds, not specified.
The new items are understood to have been added to the import prohibition
list as a measure to safeguard the stability of the new par value of the Mexi-
can peso. The new par value, 8.65 Mexican pesos to one U. S. dollar, was de—
clared by the Mexican government June 17, 1949, and has been accepted by the In-
ternational Monetary Fund.
kee KH HE
NEW FISH CANNERY ESTABLISHED: Articles of incorporation for a new fish can—
ning company have been approved, according to a June 9 American consular report
from Mexico, D. F. The new company is capitalized at 500,000 pesos ($102,987 U.S.),
of which 300,000 ($61,792, U. S.) will be financed by La Nacional Financiera, a
government organization. The cannery will be erected at Magdalena Bay, Lower Cali-
fornia. It will have a capacity of 1,000 cases a day, and it is expected to pack
specialty products, including small sardines, Spanish mackerel, abalone, spiny lob-—
ster, tuna, clams, and oysters.
The company will have four small launches for operating in Magdalena Bay.
They will probably also have a somewhat larger boat for freighting abalone and
spiny lobster from camps along the coast. For the tuna, the cannery will have ;
to depend upon deliveries from American fishing boats. i
FORMATION OF A FISHERY BANK: According to the newspaper El Universal of May 16,
there soon will be formed the "Banco de la Industria del Pescado" (Bank of the Fish-
ing Industry), with a capitalization of 20,000,000 pesos (about $4,000,000). Accord-
ing to the release, in addition to financing the fishing industry, the bank will
initiate an educational campaign in Mexico to increase the consumption of fishery
products.
CLOSED MEXICAN SHRIMP SEASONS: The Mexican Ministry of Marine is studying
the advisability of placing a closed season for shrimp fishing in the Gulf of
Campeche.
While in Guaymas, the Director of Fisheries ordered that a closed season of
45 days, effective June 1, be placed on shrimp fishing in the Gulf of California.
The normal closed season for outside waters in this area does not begin until
August 1 and lasts until September 30. As presently effective, the closed season
for shrimp fishing in outside waters in the Gulf of California wil] now be from
June 1 to July 15 and from August 1 to September 30.
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 47
PROHIBITS USE OF NETS FOR SHARKS: The Diario Oficial of May 19 carried an
order dated May 2, 1949, prohibiting the use of nets or seines for the taking of
sharks at the mouth of the Colorado River, Sonora, within nine miles of the shore,
or in the northern part of the Gulf of California or Cortes Sea, within the limits
of the marine territorial waters of Mexico, from March 20 to April 30 each year.
The purpose of this order is to protect the totoaba which, according to the order,
are spawning at that time of year.
Note: Conversion of values based on the rate of exchange of 4.855 Mexican pesos equal $1,00 U.S,
KKK HK
RESTRICTIONS ON FISHING PERMITS TO AMERICANS: Requests of American boats for
permits to operate in Mexican Territorial waters must now be confirmed by the Mex—
ican Directorate General of Fisheries or they will not be valid, according to
items appearing in local papers and as reported on July 22 by the American Embassy
at Mexico, D. F.
In addition, the Mexican Ministry of Marine announced that permits will no
longer be issued to foreign boats for the purpose of fishing shark in Mexican waters.
The reason given for this prohibition was that the sharks were being depleted.
Ta
Republic of the Philippines
SMALLEST TUNA SPECIMENS DISCOVERED: Discovery of the smallest specimens ever
seen of two species of tuna fish in the Pacific Ocean was announced May 27 by the
Administrator of the Ser—
vice's Philippine Fish-—
ery Program, and the Di-
rector of the Philippine .
Bureau of Fisheries. ae
The specimens, the
larva of the yellowfin
tuna and the oceanic bo-—
nito or skipjack, were
discovered in the exten-
sive collections of mi-
croscopic animal life made
by the American mission
during its past twoyears
in the Philippine waters.
To Charles B. Wade, Aq-
uatic Biologist of the
Program, goes the credit
for finding and identi-
fying them.
An intensive search SPENCER F. BAIRD, PHILIPPINE FISHERY PROGRAM RESEARCH VESSEL,
for facts in the life DOCKED AT YAMBOANGA, MINDANAO.
history of the various species of tuna has been going on for the past three years
all over the Pacific, and this discovery is said to be a landmark in tuna research.
Once the specimens were identified, it became apparent they were widely distributed
throughout the southern Philippine waters. Collections were taken from the waters
48 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
of Antique Province, Panay, to the Pacific Ocean west of Halmahera Island and south
in the Celebes Sea to Celebes and Makassar Strait.
According to Wade, the significance of this finding, as it pertains to the
spawning grounds of the Pacific tunas generally, will have to await research in
such far away places as New Guinea, Australia, and the Oceanic Islands. But the
finding of the specimens proves that the Philippines constitute the spawning
ground for some of the Pacific tunas.
Turkey
PLANS EXPANSION OF FISHERIES: An official of the Turkish Ministry of Economy iM
and Food Supplies was sent to Denmark for two weeks to study the Danish fishery
industry. He collected information in order to plan for the expansion of the
Turkish fishery industry.
United Kingdom
GRIMSBY RESEARCH LABORATORY TO STUDY FISH SPOILAGE: The British Ministry of
in Great Britain, according to the May 28 issue of Fish Trades Gazette. The pur—
pose of the laboratory is to insure that the fullest use would be made of fish
caught and landed at Grimsby. It will study the causes and rate of deterioration
in catches; the amount of loss as a result of deterioration; investigate the dif—
ference in quality of fish landed on the docks and as sold in inland towns; and
attempt to find out how big are the spoilage losses, where they occur, and how to
remedy them.
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 49
FEDERAL;
ACTIONS
Department of State
POINTED: The Secretary of State announced July 28 that the President has named
Mr. Alvin Anderson, Director of Fisheries of the State of Washington, as a United
States member of the International Pacific Salmon Fisheries Commission, United
States and Canada. The appointment of Mr. Anderson fills the vacancy created by
the resignation of Mr. Milo Moore, who is at present im charge of the Greek fish-
eries program for the Economic Cooperation Administration.
The International Pacific Salmon Fisheries Commission is charged, by treaty
between the United States and Canada, with the duty of conserving and rebuilding
the sockeye salmon fishery of the Fraser River System of British Columbia. Spawn=
ing in the far reaches of the river system, these salmon migrate to the Pacific
Ccean where they are caught by the fishermen of both countries. At the height of
its productivity this fishery yielded in one year 2,400,000 cases of the finest
quality salmon. Later the yield was reduced to a tenth of that figure. The large
runs that have been observed this year give every indication that the work of this
International Commission is proving successful in restoring the potentially valuable
sockeye salmon fishery to its former high rate of production.
Other United States members on the Commission are: Mr. Edward W. Allen, At-=
torney, of Seattle, now serving as Chairman, and Mr. Albert M. Day, Director of
the Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of the Interior.
Eighty-first conaress (first session)
JULY 1949
Listed below are allthe public bills, resolutions, etc. introduced and refer—
red to committees, and passed by the Eighty—First Congress during July 1949 (unless
otherwise specified) which affect in any way the fisheries and fishing and allied
industries.-
PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS INTRODUCED AND REFERRED TO COMMITTEES:
House of Representatives:
H. R, 5472 (Whittington) - A bill authorizing the construction, repair, and
preservation of certain public works on rivers and harbors for navigation,
flood control, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Public Works,
50 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
H. R. 5475 (Horan) - A bill to authorize the construction, operation, and
maintenance of the Chief Joseph project on the Columbia River at Foster
Creek, in the State of Washington, for irrigation, generation of electric
power, and for the other purposes; to the Committee on Public Works,
H, R, 5482 (Sanborn) - A bill approving plans for the development of the
Columbia River Basin, and for other purposes; to the Committee on
Public Works.
H. R, 5484 (Sikes) - A bill to modify the Gulf intracoastal waterway be-
tween Big Lagoon and Pensacola, Fla,; to the Committee on Public Works,
H, R, 5528 (McKinnon) - A bill to give effect to the convention between
the United States of America and the Republic of Costa Rica for the f
establishment of an Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission, signed y
at Washington, May 31, 1949; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
title III of the Second War Powers Act for the purpose of exercising
import controls with respect to fats and oils and rice
4
H, R, 5165 (Cooley) - A bill to continue in effect until January 1, 1951, ;
q
and
to the Committee on Banking and Currency. (June 15} 1949.1/
ce products;
H. R, 5384 (McDonough) - A bill to provide for the holding of referendums j
among the citizens af the States to determine their wishes with respect ;
to the establishment of valley authorities which would include their }
States; to the Committee on Public Works, (June 2, 1949.) |
H, Res. 294 (Bland) - Resolution to amend the Rules of the House to provide
that the Delegate from Alaska shall serve on the Committee on Merchant
Marine and Fisheries; to the Committee on Rules. |
Senate:
S. 2313 (Chapman) - A bill to provide for the establishment of a fish-
cultural station in the State of Kentucky; to the Committee on Inter-
state and Foreign Commerce.
S. 2163 (Long) - A bill to authorize the transfer of the vessel Black
Mallard from the Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of the
Interior to the Department of Wild Life and Fisheries of the State
of Louisiana; to the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce,
(June 2, 1949.)
S. 2057 (McCarthy) - A bill making certain changes in law applicable
to the Department of the Interior so as to permit the effectuation
by the President and the Secretary of the Interior of the recommen-
dations regarding the Department made by the Commission on Organiza-
tion of the Executive Branch of the Government; ,to the Committee on
Interior and Insular Affairs. (June 13, 1949.4/)
8. 653 (Thomas of Utah for himself and 12 others) - A bill to provide
for the amendment of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, and for
other purposes; to the Committee on Labor and Public Welfare, Mainly
increases minimum hour rates from 40 cents to 75 cents.
(January 27, 1949.4
MESSAGES RECEIVED:
Senate:
International Technical Cooperation: Message was received from the
Secretary of State submitting two drafts of proposed legislation
to implement President's program to assist underdeveloped areas
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW
to raise their standard of living, One proposal was for an Inter-
national Technical Cooperation Act of 1949, which was referred to
Committee on Foreign Relations, and the other was to amend the
Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 so as to guarantee U, S, investments
abroad, which was referred to Committee on Banking and Currency.
BILLS PASSED AND SIGNED BY THE PRESIDENT:
—— O_O CC
H, R, 1222 (P.L. 89) - An act to authorize the exchange of certain
fishery facilities within the State of Washington, (Approved
June 8, 1949.)
H, R. 4252 (P.L. 163) - To transfer the trawlers Alasim and Oregon
from the Reconstruction Finance Corporation to the Fish and Wild-
life Service, Approved July 13, 1949. Transfer made without
transfer and reimbursement of funds, Authorizes the appropriation
of such sums as may be necessary for the maintenance, repair,
alteration, improvement, equipment, and operation of the vessels,
H, R, 5044 (P.L. 153) - An act to contime for a temporary period
certain powers, authority, and discretion in respect to tin and
tin products conferred upon the President by the Second Decontrol
Act of 1 and for other purposes. (Approved June 30, 1949.)
1/This bill was not shown under this section previously.
dl
CoS
So F
TOTAL PRODUCTION AND DISPOS!TION OF THE DOMESTIC
CATCH OF FISHERY PRODUCTS 1929 TO 1948.
FRESH & BYPRODUCTS TOTAL
FROZEN PRODUCT! ON
POUNDS
1929 32807800; 004
1930 3,286,580, 00
1931 2,657,317,00
1932 2,614,140, 00
1933 2,933,459 , 00
1934 4,058,015, 00!
1935 4,065,802 , 000
1936 4,760,330, 000}
1937 4,352,549, 000
1938 4,253,445, 000)
1939 4,443,328, 000
1940 47 059/524700
1941 5, 080, 000 , 000
1942 3,877, 000,000
1943 4,202,000, 000
1944 4,504,000 , 000
1945 4,570,000, 000
1946 4,396,000, 000
1947 4,350,000, 000
19481/ 43.455 000,000
I/ESTIMATED.
sues eet
Bilt
52
COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW
Vol. 11, No. 8
LANDINGS AND RECEIPTS
In Millions of Pounds
MAINE - LANDINGS
NOT INCLUDING IMPORTS
fo}
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
NEW YORK CITY-RECEIPTS OF FRESH & FROZEN FISH
SALT-WATER MARKET
HELLFISH CONVERSION FACTORS 1N 1949 BASED ON WEIGHT OF MEATS _
ONLY, WHILE IN 1948 THEY ARE BASED ON WEIGHT OF MEATS AND SHELL,
26
24
ce)
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG, SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
GULF - SHRIMP LANDINGS
HEADS OFF - FOR ALL USES
JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC. JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY JUNE
In Thousands
CALIFORNIA - PILCHARD LANDINGS
| DOES NOT INCLUDE SUMMER OR OFF-SEASQN PRODUCTION
1948-49)
Ir
% ae
x
JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC. JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY JUNE
MASSACHUSETTS - LANDINGS
BOSTON , GLOUCESTER , NEW BEDFORD , & CAPE COD a
fo)
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. PEC.
CHICAGO - RECEIPTS OF FRESH & FROZEN FISH
WHOLESALE MARKET
to)
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV DEC.
SEATTLE - RECEIPTS OF FRESH & FROZEN FISH
WHOLESALE MARKET , LANDINGS , & IMPORTS
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
of Tons
CALIFORNIA- TUNA AND TUNA-LIKE FISH
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT, NOV. DEC.
seeeeeee ESTIMATED
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 53
COLD STORAGE HOLDINGS and FREEZINGS of FISHERY PRODUCTS
In Millions of Pounds
U.S. & ALASKA - HOLDINGS OF FROZEN FISH U.S. & ALASKA - FREEZINGS
180
80)
60)
40)
to)
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC. JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
NEW ENGLAND - HOLDINGS OF FROZEN FISH NEW YORK CITY - HOLDINGS OF FROZEN FISH
45
{e)
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC. JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT, NOV. DEC.
CHICAGO - HOLDINGS OF FROZEN FISH GULF - HOLDINGS OF FROZEN FISH
°
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC. JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
WASHINGTON, OREGON, AND ALASKA -
HOLDINGS OF FROZEN FISH CALIFORNIA - HOLDINGS OF FROZEN FISH
ie)
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC. JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
a4 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW
CANNED FISHERY. PRODUCTS
In Thousands of Standard Cases
MAINE - SARDINES, ESTIMATED PACK
0 g |
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
CALIFORNIA - TUNA
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
CALIFORNIA - MACKEREL
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT, NOV. DEC.
WASHINGTON - PUGET SOUND SALMON
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT, NOV. DEC.
UNITED STATES - SHRIMP
B iN
Food ‘AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, ee
FOOD INSPECTION SERVICE,
Volsy ay, Noes)
‘ °
JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC. JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY JUNE
CALIFORNIA - PILCHARDS
aoe
| Azoar-adh
| .#
ad
oO
JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC. JAN. FEB. MAR. APR.MAY JUNE ~
ALASKA - SALMON
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT, NOV. DEC.
STANDARD CASES
Variety No.Cans Can Designation Net. Wat.
3 1/4 oz.
SARDINES 100
SHRIMP 48
TUNA 48
PILCHARDS 48
' MACKEREL 48
SALMON 48
14 drawn
No.1 picnic
No. 1/2 tuna
No. 1 oval
No. 300
l_pound tall
7 oz.
7 oz.
15 oz.
15 oz.
16 oz.
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 55
PRICES , IMPORTS and BY-PRODUCTS
BOSTON - WEIGHTED ‘AVERAGE PRICE
ON NEW ENGLAND FISH EXCHANGE IN ¢ PER POUND
0.
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT, NOV. DEC.
In Millions of Pounds
U.S. - IMPORTS OF FRESH & FROZEN FILLETS
OF GROUND FISH, INCLUDING ROSEFISH:-
(0)
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
IN MILLIONS OF POUNDS
U.S.- IMPORTS OF CANNED TUNA
AND TUNA-LIKE FISH
5
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
U.S. & ALASKA - PRODUCTION OF FISH MEAL
IN THOUSANDS OF TONS
0
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
MAINE - IMPORTS OF FRESH SEA HERRING
IN MILLIONS OF POUNDS
U.S.- IMPORTS OF FRESH AND FROZEN
SHRIMP FROM MEXICO
: fe}
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
U.S.-IMPORTS OF CANNED SARDINES
( Include in oil and not in oil )
JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
U.S. & ALASKA - PRODUCTION OF FISH OIL
IN MILLIONS OF GALLONS
= im iTalft laine va fo)
JAN. FEB MAR. APR. MAY. JUNE JULY AUG, SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC
56 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW VYol..11, No. 8
Recent publications of interest to the commercial fishing industry are listed
below.
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE PUBLICATIONS
THESE PUBLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE FREE FROM THE DIVISION OF INFORMATION, FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE
INTERIOR, WASHINGTON 25, 0. C. TYPES OF PUBLICATIONS ARE DESIGNATED AS FOLLOWS:
CFS - CURRENT FISHERY STATISTICS OF THE UNITEO STATES AND ALASKA.
FL - FISHERY LEAFLETS.
MDL - MARKET DEVELOPMENT SECTION LISTS OF DEALERS, LOCKER PLANTS, ASSOCIATIONS, ETC.
SU - STATISTICAL SECTION LISTS OF DEALERS IN AND PRODUCERS OF FISHERY PRODUCTS AND BYPRODUCTS.
SEP.- SEPARATES (REPRINTS) FROM COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW.
Number Title
crs-478 - Fish Meal and Oil, May 1949
CFS-4 - New England Fisheries, 1946 Anmal Summary
crs-481 - Pacific Coast Fisheries, 1946 Annual Summary
crs-482 - Massachusetts Landings, April 1949
crs-483 - Frozen Fish Report, July 1949
FL-336 = Quarterly Outlook for Marketing Fishery Products,
July-September 1949
FL-342 - Report of Alaska Exploratory Fishing Expedition, Fall of 1948,
to Northern Bering Sea
SL-2 (Revised) - Wholesale Dealers in Fishery Products, New Hampshire, 1949
Wholesale Dealers in Fishery Products, Connecticut, 1948
Dealers in Fishery Products, New York, 1949
Wholesale Dealers in Fishery Products, Texas, 1949
Firms Canning Alewives and Alewife Roe, 1948
SL-109 (Revised Firms Canning Caviar and Fish Roe, 194
SL-118 (Revised Firms Canning Groundfish Flakes, 1948
Sep. 233 - Storage Life of Whole and Split Rockfish Fillets
Sep. 234 - Chicago Receipts of Fishery Products, 1948
SL-20 (Revised
SL-105 (Revised
MISCELLANEOUS PUBLICATIONS
THE FOLLOWING PUBLICATIONS MAY BE OBTAINED, IN MOST INSTANCES, FROM THE AGENCIES ISSUING THEM.
“Age and Length Composition of the Sardine Catch off the Pacific Coast of the
United States and Canada in 1947-48," by Kenneth H, Mosher, Frances E, Felin,
and Julius B, Phillips, reprint from California Fish and Game, Jamary 1948,
vol. 35, no. 1, 2) p., printed, California Division of Fish and Game, San
Francisco, (alif, This is a second report, consisting mostly of tables, on
age and length composition of the sardine (sardinops caerulea) catch off the
Pacific Coast of the United States and Canada and covers the 1947-48 season,
The first report (Felin and Phillips, 1948) covered the period 1941-42 through
1946-47. Readings were based on scales from fish in the commercial catch with
collections made by the Fisheries Research Bcard of Camada, the Washington
State Department of Fisheries, the Fish Commission of Oregon, the California
Division of Fish and Game, and the U. S, Fish and Wildlife Service.
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 57
Rivas, Educational Series No. 4, 39 p., printed, free, Marine Laboratory,
University of Miami, Coral Gables, Fla, (Available from the State Board of
Conservation, Tallahassee, Fla.) ‘This list has been prepared to clear up
the confusion which has arisen regarding the common names of the food or
game fishes in the waters surrounding Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico, and
in the West Indies, The names most often applied are listed for each species
of fish and the most appropriate or preferred name is indicated, together
with the scientific names, The booklet contains an index and a bibliography.
Sharks and rays are not included in the list.
"The Fisheries of Norway," article, Trade News, July 1949, vol. 2, no. 1,
pp. 17-23, processed, illus. Director of Information, Department of Fisheries,
Ottawa, Canada, Presents a resume of the Norwegian fisheries and gives tables
containing in many instances production data for the first part of 1949, and
an analysis of Norway's fishery export trade,
"The Fisheries of Prince Edward Island," article, Trade News, July 1949, vol. 2,
no. 1, pp. 810, processed. Director of Information, Department of Fisheries,
Ottawa, Canada. Covers the production of fishery products in Prince Edward
Island for 1948 giving landings and value and a short analysis of each prin-
cipal species,
Growth of the Sardine (Sardinops caerulea), 1941-42 through 1946-47, by Julius B,
Shillips, Ficb Bulletin Won 71-33 lta printed, California Bureau of
Marine Fisheries, Division of Fish and Game, San Francisco, Celif., 1948. A
report af a comprehensive age-reading program started with the 1941-42 season
on the Pacific sardine or pilchard, ‘The readings were based on scales from
fish in the commercial catch with collections made by the Fisheries Research
Board of Canada, the Washington State Department of Fisheries, the Fish Com-
mission of Oregon, the California Division of Fish and Game, and the U. S.
Fish and Wildlife Service, ‘The actual age interpretations were made jointly
by the members of the latter two agencies and were published by Felin and
Phillips (1948). In addition to general observations concerning the life
history of the sardine, Tables 1 through 7 list the mmber of fish, mean
length and standard error of the mean for each year-class for each season,
1941-42 through 1946-47, by region of catch,
"Las Riquezas de Nuestros Mares; El Ostion," (‘The Riches of Our Seas: ‘the
Oyster) by Isabel ‘Perez Farfante and Gerardo A. Canet, article (in Spanish),
Trimestre, Jamary-March 1949, vol. III, no. 1, pp. 67-81, illus, Juan Bruno
Zayas 319, Vibora, La Habana, Cuba, Outlines morphology, reproduction, nu-
tritional values, of the Cuban oysters (Ostrea rhizoporae); the possibilities
of developing this industry in Cuba, and also introducing the species Ostrea
virginica, A map is included showing the areas where oysters are to be found
or can be planted.
"1948 Food Consumption Surveys," Family Food Con tion in Buffalo, New York,
Winter 1948, Preliminary Report No. 4, FE 701, 5 "p., processed, 2/20/29.
Bureau of Human Nutrition and Home Economics, Agricultural Research Admin-
istration, U. S, Department of Agriculture, Washington 25, D. C. Reports
on the average quantity and expense for purchased foods (including fish
and shellfish), used at home per household per week, as well as the per-
centage of households using the various foods by anmal income class and
housekeeping families of two or more persons in Buffalo, N. Y. Includes
data on fresh fish, canned salmon, other canned fish (including sardines
and tuna), smoked and cured fish, fresh and frozen shellfish in the shell
and shelled, and canned cooked shellfish,
Report on the Investigation of Albacore (Thunnus alelunga), Circular No, 17,
May 6, 1949, 23 p>, illus, with maps and charts, processed, Pacific Bio-
logical Station, Fisheries Research Board of Canada, Nanaimo, B, C, this
58
COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW Vol. 11, No. 8
circuler follows up Circular No, 12 (Accumlated Data on Albacore, May 10, 1948)
which brought together all the data which had been collected up to that time in
numerous miscellaneous observations on the albacore, and it includes sections
on the results obtained by tabulating log-boek records kept by fishermen and the
results obtained from length measurements of fish at different ports, New and
importent sections describe the results of observations made aboard the patrol a
vessels Kitimat and Laurier, which were assigned by the Canadian Department of ¥
Fisheries to aid the albacore fishery fleet to find fish, and to possibly med-
ify the preconceived ideas about the distribution of the albacore population,
Includes data on fishing experiments and scientific observations; temperature
and oceanographic conditions; feeding, tagging, age studies, and body temper-
atures of albacore,
"Rich Harvest Expected This Season by Greek Sponge Fishing Industry," by T. J.
Monty, article, Foreign Trade, July 2, 1949, vol, VI, no, 131, pp, 16-17,
Department of Trade and Commerce, Foreign Trade Service, Ottawa, (Available
from the King's Printer Government Printing Bureau, Ottawa, Canada, 10 cents
per issue), Gives the Greek production and value of sponges in 1948, landed
prices of sponges for 1948 and 1949, and conditions in the industry.
Scouting for Herring Along the East Coast of Queen Charlotte Islands, March 1949,
by J. C, Stevenson, Circular No. lo, April 1949, 4 p., processed, Pacific
Biological Station, Fisheries Research Board of Canada, Nanaimo, B, C, This
is a report on two Canadian Department of Fisheries patrol boats and a com-
mercial vessel which scouted the east coast of Moresby Island in order to
obtain information as to what quantity of herring might have been caught if
fishing had gone on in the Queen Charlottes,
The Statistical Agencies of the Federal Government (A Report to the Commission
on Organization the Executive Branch of the Government), by Frederick C,
Mills end Clarence D, Long,’ 224 p., printed, $2,00.- National Bureau of
Economic Research, Inc., New York, N, Y. This is a report of a survey of
Federal statistical agencies conducted for the Commission on Organization
of the Executive Branch of the Government (Hoover Commission), ‘The survey
contains data on the statistical activities that serve the operating needs
of administrative and regulatory agencies of government and that supply
Congress, the Executive Branch, and the public with information on economic ~
and social conditions and processes. It discusses the Federal statistical
activities; the organization, operation, and appraisal of the Federal sta-
tistical system, and concludes with certain recommendations, Included are
the statistical activities of the Fish and Wildlife Service, but none of
the recommendations affect the Service's statistical activities,
Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, = 9 (Available from State Board of Con-
servation, Tallahassee, Florida). In order to obtain factual informtion
regarding stop netting, an investigation was made of operations along the
west coast of Florida, ‘This booklet gives descriptions of the operation
of six types of stop nets, with observations of the kinds, numbers, and
size of fish canght, the effect of the fishing upon the sea bottom, the
condition of the fish caught, and other pertinent facts. An evaluation
of the various charges made against stop netting is outlined, the de-
sirability of outlawing stop netting in Florida is discussed; and if
stop netting is to be abolished, suggestions are made as to how this
might be accomplished, Stop netting is illegal in Florida, but because
of the variety of methods and because of the way the State law is worded,
enforcement is difficult. Stop netting has been widely practiced over
most of the State in recent years,
Third Semi-Annual Report (July 1 to December 31, 1948), by the Director, 24 p.,
processed, limited distribution, Institute of Fisheries Research, University
of North Carolina, Morehead City, N. C. This publication presents the In-
August 1949 COMMERCIAL FISHERIES REVIEW 59
stitute's program for scientific and technological research, and cooperative
effort and activity. Scientific research includes studies on ocean shrimp
and bottom mapping, investigation of shrimp in the sound and littoral waters,
molluse investigations, finfish investigations, and oceanography and hydro-
biology. The technological research program consists of investigations on
processing methods, distribution and marketing of fishery products; inves-
tigations on net deterioration; and experimental gear work, The cooperative
effort and activity phase includes working and cooperating with other states
and the Federal Government, In addition, the Institute plans the application
of its findings for the education of the youth of North Caroline in high
school and college, and the education of the fishermen,
Department of Registration and Education, Urbana, Illinois, June 1949. Con-
tains a section on the commercial fisheries (rough fish) catch and value of
the bottomland lakes in the Illinois and Mississippi River Valleys for 1943
through 1947.
“World Hard Fiber Production Remains Below Prewar Average," article, Foreign
Crops and Markets, June 20, 1949, vol. 58, no. 25, pp. 598-601, processed,
free, Office of Foreign Agricultural Relations, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture,
Washington 25, D, C. This article reports upon the 1948 world production
of the three principal hard fibers--abaca or manila, henequen, and sisal.
The uses and sources of supply of each fiber are discussed.
Year Book of Caribbean Research 1 8 (Survey of Research and Investigation in
Caribbean Commission Territories), 427 p., printed, $2,00, Research Branch,
Central Secretariat, Caribbean Commission, Kent House, Port-of-Spain, Trini-
dad, 1949. This first edition of the research survey is a source book of
Caribbean research and includes, among the many fields of research covered,
fish and wildlife, It affords a basis also for the formulation and imple-
mentation of future plans of research designed to contribute to the well-
being of the Caribbean area, for which the Caribbean Commission and its
auxiliary bodies, the Caribbean Research Council and the West Indian Con-
ference, have been established. Under fish and fisheries, it lists the
research institutions in this field to be found in Barbados, British
Guiana, Curacao, French Guiana, Surinam, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and Miami,
Florida; and under each listing is given a brief resume of the purpose of
the institution,
a
Processing -- Miscellaneous Service Division
Mlustrator -- Gustaf T. Sundstrom Compositors -- Jean Zalevsky, Carolyn Wood
61379
aN
U.S. SPEGIAL MISSION REVIEWS JAPANESE FISHERIES SITUATION
Fishery Leaflet 346, "U. S. Special Mission Reviews Japanese Fisheries Sit—
panne isa nerert prepared by a special American fisheries mission invited by
the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers to
study the Japanese fisheries industry.
The Mission in its conclusions stated that
they endorsed the policy of SCAP aimed at maximum
sustained production; supervision over the dis—
tribution of gear and oil; close liaison between
SCAP andthe Japanese Fisheries Agency and the ad—
vancement of that Agency to the status of aMinistry;
the position that Japanese research should be con—
centrated on conservation; the firm attitude to-—
ward petitions for extension of the MacArthur Line;
a patrol of the fishing areas by the Japanese
Government supervised by SCAP; the democratization
of Japanese industry. In addition, they oppose
the Japanese being permitted to engage in the coastal fisheries of any of the
allied powers and urge that as long as SCAP has control such fishing be prohibited.
The mission also believes that when a treaty of peace is negotiated with Japan that
permanent fishery treaties should be concurrently negotiated and not left for
subsequent action, and that they should include protection of world coastal fish-
eries, sound policies for high
a fur-seal treaty, and respect
Copies of Fishery Leaflet
"py faseyg AaetyD
sea fishing, the international whaling convention,
for international fishery conventions.
346 are available free upon request from the U. S.
Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington 25, D. C.
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