Twelve Standard >> Improvement of food production | Fishery

Improvement of food production : Fishery farming

Fisheries refers to the branch of science and industry that deals with the breeding, rearing, and harvesting of fish, as well as the cultivation of other aquatic organisms. It involves activities related to the management, conservation, and utilization of aquatic resources, including both wild and cultured fish populations.

Fisheries play a vital role in providing food security, supporting livelihoods, and contributing to the economy in many countries. Fish are an important source of protein and essential nutrients for human consumption. Furthermore, fisheries contribute to employment opportunities, export earnings, and the overall economic development of coastal and inland communities.

Fisheries management focuses on sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of fish populations and ecosystems. This includes measures such as setting catch limits, regulating fishing gear, implementing fishing quotas, and establishing protected areas. Conservation efforts are aimed at maintaining biodiversity, preventing overfishing, and mitigating the impacts of fishing on the environment.

Fisheries can encompass various sectors, including commercial fishing, aquaculture (fish farming), recreational fishing, and fish processing industries. It involves a range of activities such as fish capture, transportation, processing, marketing, and distribution.

Carp Varieties and Their Cultivation:

Carp, belonging to the order Cypriniformes, are among the most important and widely cultivated fish in India. They can be categorized into two main groups: major carp and minor carp. Let's explore some popular edible varieties:

a) Major Carp:

Rohu (Labeo rohita): Rohu is a highly sought-after major carp species known for its fast growth and delicious taste. It is well-suited for pond culture and is widely cultivated in India.
Catla (Catla catla): Catla is another major carp species popular for its fast growth rate and large size. It is primarily cultivated in freshwater ponds and reservoirs.

b) Minor Carp:

Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio): Common Carp is a popular species cultivated globally, including in India. It is known for its adaptability and ability to thrive in various water bodies.
Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella): Grass Carp is valued for its herbivorous nature and is often introduced into ponds to control aquatic vegetation.

Induced Breeding and Hypophysation Technique:

Induced breeding is a technique used to stimulate fish to spawn in controlled conditions. One commonly used method is hypophysation, which involves the administration of hormones to fish for breeding. HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) is a hormone commonly used in hypophysation to induce maturation and spawning in carps.

Composite Fish Culture:

Composite fish culture is a method that involves the simultaneous rearing of multiple compatible fish species in the same pond. It aims to optimize space, feed utilization, and overall productivity. In this practice, carps are often combined with other compatible fish species like catfish, tilapia, or murrel, creating a balanced ecosystem within the pond.

Efficient carp farming requires the development of three distinct layers within the pond, with specific fish cultivated in each layer in India:

a) Surface Layer: The surface layer of the pond is utilized for floating feed and feeding practices. Carp species like Rohu (Labeo rohita) and Catla (Catla catla) thrive in this layer. They prefer floating feed and have easy access to it in the surface layer, allowing for efficient feeding management.

b) Middle Layer: The middle layer of the pond is crucial for the growth and development of carp. It provides ample space for fish to move and swim freely, promoting their physical fitness and growth. Some commonly cultivated fish species in the middle layer include Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) and Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix). These species utilize the middle layer to exhibit their active behavior and maximize their growth potential.

c) Bottom Layer: The bottom layer of the pond is significant for the benthic feeding habits of carps, particularly Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) and Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella). These carp species are known to feed on bottom-dwelling organisms and detritus, contributing to a balanced ecosystem within the pond.