This paper embodies the distribution pattern of major finfish resources along the
southeast coast of India as observed during the cruises operated by FORV Sagar
Sampada. A total of 16 cruises (1985-90) operated along latitude 7° 15'- 15°00' N
and longitude 75°50'- 82°3r E hauled a total catch 37.5 tonnes with a catch rate of
537 kg/hr. The catch was constituted mainly by threadfin breams (43%), perches
(14%), barracudas (9.72%), carangids (8.56%) and elasmobranchs (4.81%). Seasonally
higher catch rates were obtained during July- September period. Depth range of
60 - 80 m had denser population of finfish resources. Water temperature and salinity
appeared to influence the distribution of major finfishes more than dissolved oxygen.
Groups such as threadfin breams were found preferring cooler waters of Wadge Bank
area, while barracudas appear to occupy warmer waters of Gulf of Mannar
