In this issue:

• Neolissochilus hexagonolepis (chocolate mahseer): A flagship species for diversification of hill aquaculture in Northeast India
• Aquarium fish culture in open village ponds in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal
• Women nurtured transformative aquaculture in rural Bengal
• Breeding and seed production technology of striped spiny eel Macrognathus pancalus to benefit fish farmers
• Grow-out culture of the loach Lepidocephalichthys thermalis in modified tanks
• NACA Newsletter

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Thai Fish Project began in 2019, and involves around 200 research members and multiple institutions in Thailand and Japan. The project aims to promote domestication and wise use of two Thai native aquatic species, namely the Asian sea bass Lates calcarifer and banana shrimp Penaeus merguiensis through increasing productivity, reducing the impact of infectious diseases, and preserving genetic resources. The project also encompasses several specific research topics to ensure that it comprehensively addresses the concerns on safeguarding the food security and enhancing the environmental sustainability as much as possible. This article describes the main research activities, outputs and future expectations of the Thai Fish Project.

Naihati fish seed market of West Bengal was established in 1976 and is the largest seed market in India. With the advent of induced breeding technology and hatcheries, fish seed is now available almost year-round, catering to the need of Indian farmers. Situated in North 24 Parganas, Naihati wholesale fish seed market is a well-known establishment that provides multifaceted services to stakeholders including fish seed growers, retailers, sellers, and mediators. This article describes the state of the market as aspects of its evolution over time.

CAA7 will be held in Hainan, China, from 29 November to 2 December, with an option for online participation via Zoom for people that cannot attend in person. The theme of the symposium is "Sustainable development of cage aquaculture in Asia". Sessions will be held on: Production systems; breeding and seed production; nutrition and feed; carbon sink and fouling organisms; health and environmental management; economics, gender, livelihood and policy.

The symposium is organised by the Asian Fisheries Society, Hainan University, Shanghai Ocean University, and the China-ASEAN "Belt and Road" Joint Laboratory of Mariculture Technology, Center for Ecological Aquaculture.

Collectively carps represent the largest global aquaculture sector, contributing over 20 percent of global aquaculture production. The Indian major carps including catla (Catla catla), rohu (Labeo rohita) and mrigal (Cirhinnus mrigala) are cultured widely across the Indian sub-continent with the main culture system being a multi-species polyculture in ponds, often including other carp species. This production sector is supported by major seed supply systems producing over 50 billion seed per annum. This case study analyses genetic management of Indian major carps since they were first domesticated with the development of hypophysation techniques in the 1950s. A review of literature and a survey of common hatchery practices identifies significant problems prevalent in the sector brought about by a lack of application of best practices in genetic management resulting in loss of genetic diversity, inbreeding and uncontrolled hybrid introgression.

The first conference of the International Artemia Aquaculture Consortium will be organized on September 9, 2024 in Ostend, Belgium. The 8th International Fish & Shellfish Larviculture Symposium - Larvi ’24 - will be organised at the same venue in Ostend from 9-12 September 2024.

A more detailed first announcement with call for presentations will be mailed in the first week of October 2023. A preliminary website has been opened where you can register your interest to participate in this event.