Catfish

Description

Catfish – Hardy, Air-Breathing Freshwater Fish for Profitable Aquaculture

Catfish are a group of ray-finned freshwater fish named for their distinctive whisker-like barbels around the mouth. They are found worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions and are popular in aquaculture due to their adaptability, disease resistance, and high growth rate.

In India, catfish are highly valued for their nutritional benefits, medicinal use, and ability to survive in low-oxygen waters.

Popular Catfish Species in India:

1. Magur (Clarias magur) – Also known as Walking Catfish

2. Singhi (Heteropneustes fossilis) – Known for stinging spines and medicinal value

3. Pangasius (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) – Exotic, fast-growing commercial species

4. Wallago attu – Known as freshwater shark

5. Ompok pabda – A soft-fleshed, premium catfish

6. Mystus spp. – Native catfish found in rivers and lakes

   Key Characteristics:

   • Habitat: Rivers, ponds, tanks, swamps, and rice fields

   • Feeding Habit: Omnivorous or carnivorous, depending on species

   • Special Traits:

     • Many are air-breathers, capable of surviving in oxygen-deficient water

     • Tolerate poor water quality and high density stocking

     • Often marketed live due to survival ability

       Aquaculture Significance:

       Catfish farming is ideal for small-scale and backyard fish farmers due to:

       • Low investment and operational costs

       • Fast growth in intensive systems

       • High demand in regional markets

       • Suitable for integration with paddy or duck farming

         Nutritional & Medicinal Value:

         Catfish meat is:

         • High in protein and essential amino acids

         • Rich in iron, phosphorus, and omega-3 fatty acids

         • Easily digestible and often prescribed for recovery diets, especially Magur and Singhi

         • Known for wound healing and boosting immunity