Among the freshwater catfishes, magur (Clarias batrachus) is in great demand in eastern and north-eastern India; it is revered as highly nutritious and therapeutic in nature. It contains higher percentage of protein and iron compared to most other edible freshwater fishes. Stinging catfish Heteropneustes fossilis or ‘singhi’ is also commercially significant, known for its invigorating quality that includes taste and nutritional values. Its muscle contains high amounts of protein and iron (226 mg/100 g). These two fishes are very useful for people during recovery from an illness or medical treatment. Both have relatively high haemoglobin content (11.58%), better palatability, medicinal values and live out of water for several hours if their skin is kept moist.

During May-June 2016, Sri Sayer Mohammad Sarkar, an experienced magur breeder and seed producer, has achieved success in producing induced-bred hybrid seed of H. fossilis and C. batrachus. His breeding protocol and experiences in nursery and growout of hybrid catfish are shared in this article.