Aquaculture Asia Magazine, January-March 2024

In this issue:

  • Neolissochilus hexagonolepis (chocolate mahseer): A flagship species for diversification of hill aquaculture in Northeast India.
    Chandan Debnath, Tasso Tayung and Sanjay Kumar Das
  • Aquarium fish culture in open village ponds in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal.
    Subrato Ghosh
  • Women nurtured transformative aquaculture in rural Bengal.
    Urna Banerjee and Pratap Mukhopadhyay
  • Breeding and seed production technology of striped spiny eel Macrognathus pancalus to benefit fish farmers.
    D.N. Chattopadhyay, R.N. Mandal, A. Ghosh, P.P. Chakrabarti, S. Adhikari, B.N. Paul, F. Hoque,  A. Das, and A. Hussan
  • Grow-out culture of the loach Lepidocephalichthys thermalis in modified tanks.
    P. Velmurugan., J. Stephen Sampath Kumar and Somu Sundar Lingam
  • NACA Newsletter.

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Aquaculture Asia Magazine

Aquaculture Asia Magazine is an autonomous publication that gives farmers and scientists in developing countries a voice. Stories concern the small-scale aquaculture prevalent in the region and the circumstances of farmers trying to make ends meet in an increasingly globalised world. We accept articles on any aspect of aquaculture and the related processing, marketing, economic, environmental and social issues. An RSS feed is available if you wish to stay informed of new issues.

In this collection

Neolissochilus hexagonolepis (chocolate mahseer): A flagship species for diversification of hill aquaculture in Northeast India

This article investigates the ecological, economic, and cultural importance of Neolissochilus hexagonolepis, commonly known as chocolate mahseer and its potential for hill aquaculture in Northeast India. The taxonomy, distribution, and distinct features are described. Chocolate mahseer populations are in decline due to habitat degradation, overfishing and environmental changes, and it is designated as "near threatened" by the IUCN. Breeding patterns, growth parameters, and culture techniques are explored in depth as a candidate species for aquaculture development. Conservation initiatives and the need to balance economic utilisation with species conservation in chocolate mahseer farming are discussed.

Aquarium fish culture in open village ponds in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal

The article highlights the successful commercial-scale breeding, propagation, rearing, and sale of aquarium fish species in the Howrah and South 24 Parganas districts of West Bengal, India. It focuses on the innovative practices of two experienced aquarium fish farmers, Sri Bikash Sau and Sri Swapan Parua, who have introduced a novel approach to aquarium fish culture in open earthen and common village ponds. The success stories of Sri Bikash Sau and Sri Swapan Parua serve as inspirations for small and medium-scale farmers and aqua-entrepreneurs. Their innovative approach to open pond production for aquarium fishes demonstrates the increasing potential and expansion of the aquarium fish business in the region.

Women nurtured transformative aquaculture in rural Bengal

Aquaculture has traditionally been a male-dominated activity. Changes in rural dynamics, with men migrating to cities for better opportunities, have led women to take up aquaculture in Bengal. Collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendras and local R&D institutions have provided them with training in ecological aquaculture, focusing on resource utilisation. Women engage in agro-ecological farming, utilising local inputs and traditional knowledge. The cooperative approach has enabled women to systematise production processes at a low cost, overcoming challenges and reviving local production. By forming self-help groups women have access to unconventional water resources and utilise mobile communication tools to strengthen the fish production system. The article discusses the broader role of women in diverse domains of aquaculture, including fish culture, hatchery management, nutrition, and fish processing technology, showcasing their resilience, capability, and contributions to the success of aquaculture.

Breeding and seed production technology of striped spiny eel Macrognathus pancalus to benefit fish farmers

The striped spiny eel, Macrognathus pancalus, is economically significant but faces population decline due to anthropogenic factors. This study presents a comprehensive approach to breeding and seed production techniques for M. pancalus, conducted at the Regional Research Centre, ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Rahara, India. The study describes broodstock management simulation of natural habitat to stimulate natural breeding. Techniques for hatching and larval rearing, management of early spawn, and precautions to prevent cannibalism are presented. Survival of 88% after one month was achieved. The breeding and seed production techniques provided are suitable for farmers to adapt, and will contribute to the conservation and utilisation of M. pancalus in sustainable aquaculture practices. The findings also highlight the economic potential of this species to provide a nutritious option for consumers at affordable prices.

Grow-out culture of the loach Lepidocephalichthys thermalis in modified tanks

This study explores the cultivation of the Indian spiny loach, Lepidocephalichthys thermalis, in indigenously designed poly-lined iron frame tanks as a sustainable solution. The article details the fabrication methods for these tanks, highlighting the use of rust-resistant iron and low-density polyethylene sheets.The study proposes a supplementary feed mixture and provides insights into water quality management to ensure optimal conditions. The study demonstrates the potential for achieving a net production level of 1 kg from 400 liters, offering economic viability for farmers. The modified tank-based rearing system is shown to be beneficial in hilly regions with limited land and water resources.