Evaluation of the use of artificial bait based on jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) meal as lure for freshwater crustaceans: a preliminary study

The effectiveness of an artificial bait made from jackfruit flour (Artocarpus heterophyllus) in capturing freshwater crustaceans by pot fishing was evaluated, comparing it with a traditional coconut paste bait. Experimental trials were conducted with Cherax quadricarinatus, Macrobrachium tenellum, and Procambarus clarkii in controlled ponds. The results indicated that, for M. tenellum, the jackfruit flour bait was more effective than the coconut paste bait, showing significant differences. For C. quadricarinatus and P. clarkii, no statistical differences were found in the number of organisms captured between the two baits. These findings suggest that jackfruit flour could be a viable and sustainable alternative bait in crustacean fisheries, reducing the dependence on animal-based baits. Further research under natural conditions is recommended to optimize its formulation and evaluate its impact on species selectivity.