World Aquaculture - March 2012

World Aquaculture 31 bata, gonius, and reba, are now proving to be successful species in small water bodies. Small-bodied species like Amblyopharyngodon mola, which was once viewed as a weed fish, is now recognized as a fish with very high levels of Vitamin A as well as rich in minerals. This species is now used popularly for making pickled fish. Farmers can select the species depending on local market demand. Culture techniques are available for each of the species combinations and they can be adapted to suit local conditions. Conclusion The average per capita fish consumption recommended for a healthy body and mind is 100 g/day (36.5 kg/year). The average per capita fish consumption globally is only 16.3 kg/ year, while in India it about 9.0 kg/year, and in the northeastern region it is about 6.0 kg/year. These differences in fish consumption support the need for increased fish production in the region and the country as a whole. Farmers in Andhra Pradesh now produce an average of 8000 kg/ha per year, while in Punjab, average productivity level has increased to 6000 kg/ha per year. In various parts of the country, farmers with even modest efforts are able to obtain a productivity level of 4000 kg/ha per year. The northeastern region of India has substantial resources, not yet tapped. In addition, some of the rice growing areas appear well suited for fish culture. The information presented in this paper indicates the resources available for fish farming and the poFig. 7. A row of feed bags installed in a pond. Fig. 8. Bamboo installed as substrate for periphyton growth. Fig. 9. Palm leaves used as substrate for periphyton growth. tential technical strategies that can be implemented to benefit poor farmers. Notes 1Laboratory of Aquaculture & Artemia Reference Center, Ghent University, Belgium *Correspondence: debtanu08@gmail.com, mobile- +32488191632 2College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Lembucherra, Tripura (W)-799210, India 3Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai-400061, India

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