NACA member governments are: Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, I.R. Iran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Korea (DPR), Lao PDR, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam.
Ompok bimaculatus, locally known as pabda catfish, is widely distributed in the natural water resources of Assam and other northeastern states of India. It is a preferred indigenous non-airbreathing catfish with high market demand compared to Indian major carps and exotic carps. Due to habitat modification and over exploitation, pabda has been assessed as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. This article describes the development of captive breeding protocols for pabda at the Pabhoi Fish Farm, including broodstock management, captive breeding, and larval rearing. Fecundity ranged from 20,000-22,000 eggs per 100 g body weight. Spawning was induced with Ovatide and eggs transferred to a flow-through system for hatching. Larvae began exogenous feeding after two days.
In India's north-eastern states and West Bengal, women's participation in aquaculture is around 55%. They are involved in pond fertilisation, nursery fish seed rearing, fish feeding, and harvesting. In Purba Medinipur, women practice family-based freshwater aquaculture in backyard ponds. This helps improve the health of rural households and supports their lives and livelihoods. Experts from ICAR-Central Institute for Women in Agriculture, Odisha, believe that improving rural women's access to credit and developing women-friendly aquaculture technologies can help. Involving women trainers and extension workers, and organising women aquaculture clubs, can also enhance technology transfer. This article describes the role of women in aquaculture in Haldia, Purba Medinipur, and the practices and business development of some leading women fish farmers.
Scientific aquaculture to promote better livelihoods for Scheduled Caste farmers.
Rainbow trout in Jammu and Kashmir: Present status and strategies for expansion.
Community participation in marine ornamental aquaculture: An integral approach on livelihood empowerment of islander women and conservation of reef ecosystems at the Lakshadweep Islands, India.
Training programmes organised by West Bengal Fisheries Department in South 24 Parganas in the beginning of 2024.
Exploring the possibility of captive production of a near threatened catfish, Rita chrysea for Indian aquaculture.
Rita chrysea, a member of the Bagridae family, is a medium-sized freshwater catfish predominantly inhabiting the Mahanadi River system, coursing through the states of Chhattisgarh and Odisha in India. It has been classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN. Researchers at ICAR-CIFA, Bhubaneswar, have achieved successful breeding and rearing of R. chrysea in an intiative that aims to to popularise the species through training programs for farmers. This article describes methodologies to induce spawning and rear the larvae of R. chrysea and its performance in captivity, potentially paving the way for its adoption as a mainstream aquaculture species. Furthermore, the insights provided in this article may contribute to ensuring the captive breeding and rearing of two other species, R. pavimentata and R. rita, in the future. These species, belonging to the same genus, dominate Indian river systems.
Fisheries and aquaculture are crucial sources and contributors of nutrient-rich food, income, and livelihoods for many people in West Bengal and across India, creating valuable rural employment opportunities and fostering integrated rural development. Efforts are being made by the Fisheries Department to disseminate scientific knowledge about improved techniques of fish culture to fish farmers (progressive farmers, small and marginal farmers) by imparting hands-on training to them. The aim is to increase fish production through various means like bringing more water bodies under scientific fish culture and ensuring access to nutritionally balanced fish feed and high-quality fry and fingerling-stage fish for fish farmers. Training serves as an important mechanism for the transfer of technology and improving human skills regarding the developmental process This article describes recent short-term training programmes by the West Bengal Department of Fisheries for fish farmers that were organised in almost all districts of the state, including South 24 Parganas.
Promoting and encouraging community participation in marine ornamental aquaculture presents an alternative approach to enhancing the economic status of marginalised individuals, particularly women, in the Lakshadweep islands. Additionally, it aids in curbing the wild capture of marine ornamental organisms, thereby relieving pressure on natural resources. The article examines the strategy of community-based marine ornamental aquaculture and its significance in bolstering the economy of islanders, particularly women, in the Lakshadweep Sea. It seeks to investigate effective approaches to promote the sustainability of the coral reef ecosystem in the region. High-value marine ornamental organisms, such as fishes and shrimps, are cultivated in community aquaculture units using simplified technology. These organisms are supplied to aquarists and hobbyists, thus supplementing the income of local women islanders.
The Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture uses funds from the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan project to provide support such as fish seed, feed, lime, and manure to Scheduled Caste farmers. The goal is to enable them to utilise untapped water resources for fish production. This support in aquaculture inputs has resulted in increased fish production, heightened income, the creation of employment opportunities, the development of skilled labourers, and made a significant contribution to the national income. Marginal fish farmers have consistently generated revenue through these efforts. They have also directly provided poor communities with essential nutrients through fish consumption, combating hunger. This article describes the methodology and outcomes of the project Scientists-Farmers Interface and Aquaculture Input Support to SC Farmers of Sonarpur C.D. Block.
With the implementation of the new aquatic animal disease reporting in the Asia Pacific region from January 2021, and in lieu of the published QAAD Reports (last issue published was 4th quarter of 2020), NACA is publishing reported aquatic animal diseases submitted by countries in the Asia-Pacific region. This report covers the fourth quarter of 2023 and the original and updated reports can be accessed from the QAAD page.
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.
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.
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.
With the implementation of the new aquatic animal disease reporting in the Asia Pacific region from January 2021, and in lieu of the published QAAD Reports (last issue published was 4th quarter of 2020), NACA is publishing reported aquatic animal diseases submitted by countries in the Asia-Pacific region. This report covers the third quarter of 2023 and the original and updated reports can be accessed from the QAAD page.
In 2023, FAO and NACA initiated a consultation process on aquaculture effluent management in Asia and the Pacific in collaboration with NACA member governments. Experts across the region gathered information to assess the state of governance, advancements in technology and innovation in aquaculture effluent management. The consultative process culminated in an expert workshop, convened from 14 to 15 November, funded by FAO, to share views and national experiences on aquaculture effluent management.
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.
In late 2022 tilapia parvovirus (TiPV) was found to be associated with mass mortalities of tilapia in Odisha, India, both individually and in co-infections with tilapia lake virus. Infections have also been reported from Thailand and China. Clinical signs include lethargy, scale loss, redness on the body with haemorrhages on the operculum, base of fins and ventral part, opaqueness of the eyes, swimming near the pond edge and loss of appetite before death. This article describes the epidemiology of TiPV disease including its diagnosis, transmission, prevention and control, and its potential impact on the tilapia aquaculture industry.
