( 74 ) 
Two nets are generally placed side by side. A rope 100 fathoms 
in length, to which are attached at intervals of 2 feet streamers 
made of dried palmj^ra leaves, is dragged through the water 
towards the mouths of the nets by two men (see Fig. 8). 
The streamers frighten the fish and drive them into the net. 
This net is used by Moormen only. 
Fig. 8. — Manni valai. 
14. — Vidu valai (or Udu valai) (Tamil). 
Locality : Kalpitij^a, Talaimannar, Kaji^s, and Jaffna. 
Descriptio7i : This net is a huge bag, 7| fathoms wide and 3 
fathoms deep. The mouth of the bag has a series of floats 
on the upper side. The lower side is provided with a light 
footrope. Mesh, 1 inch. 
The same as Vidu valai of Pesali (sometimes known as 
Manalai valai). (See also Manni valai No. 13.) 
Method of Use : Used in shallow water. One man supports 
either end and keeps the footrope in position by means of his 
feet. At the same time he holds the upper part of the mouth 
of the net with his hands, thus keeping the mouth open. 
The fish are driven towards the net by means of a long ola 
line di-agged by two men. This is pulled from the shore 
outwards towards the net. When the fish enter the net the 
footrope is raised. This net is considered harmful by some 
of the fishermen. 
