Singhi Fish

Description

Singhi Fish – Heteropneustes fossilis | Nutrient-Rich Air-Breathing Freshwater Catfish

Singhi fish (Heteropneustes fossilis), commonly called Stinging Catfish or Shingi, is a small-sized, air-breathing catfish found in the freshwater ecosystems of India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and other South Asian countries. It inhabits shallow ponds, swamps, and rice fields, often surviving in muddy, low-oxygen environments.

Key Characteristics:

• Scientific Name: Heteropneustes fossilis

• Common Names: Singhi, Shingi, Stinging Catfish

• Type: Air-breathing freshwater fish

• Habitat: Shallow, stagnant water bodies like ponds, paddy fields, swamps, and ditches

• Special Trait: Has a suprabranchial organ for breathing air and can survive out of water for hours if kept moist

  Aquaculture Significance:

  Singhi is considered a live fish because it stays alive during transport and marketing. It is ideal for small-scale, rural aquaculture systems due to its tolerance to adverse conditions and minimal space requirement. It is also used in integrated farming systems such as rice–fish culture.

  Growth & Farming:

  • Reaches marketable size (200–300g) in 6–8 months

  • Requires less feed and can consume insects, small invertebrates, and plant matter

  • Can be cultured in small tanks, cement cisterns, and even backyard water bodies

    Nutritional & Medicinal Benefits:

    Singhi fish is rich in high-quality protein, iron, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential amino acids. Traditionally recommended for patients recovering from illness or surgery, it is known to aid in wound healing, immunity boosting, and overall nourishment.