The biggest handicap in the development of fish farming in the country was availability of fish seed, as the cultureable fishes did not breed under captivity. A breakthrough was made by induced spawning of major carps, using various combinations of hormones particularly Ovaprim and Ovatide. There are three local carps which are cultured in the country i.e. Catla catla (Thaila); Labeo rohita.. The biggest handicap in the development of fish farming in the country was availability of fish seed, as the cultureable fishes did not breed under captivity. A breakthrough was made by induced spawning of major carps, using various combinations of hormones particularly Ovaprim and Ovatide. There are three local carps which are cultured in the country i.e. Catla catla (Thaila); Labeo rohita (Rohu) and Cirrhinus mrigala (Mori). Rohu is a slow growing fish but is preferred by the consumers for the quality of its meat. Thaila being a fast growing fish is preferred by farmers. Keeping in view the importance of Rohu and Thaila in the farming system, Rohu x Thaila crosses were produced for aquaculture in the country. The hybrid possessed a smaller head than that of Thaila and wider body than Rohu.
The hybrid grew faster than Rohu. The flesh content of the Rohu-Catla hybrid was 54–58%, which is higher than Rohu (48–52%) and Thaila (45%). Some hatcheries’ owners have adopted this technology.
Key Reference
Afzal, M. and A. Rab. (1986). Induced spawning of major carps. Progressive Farming, 5 (6): 25-27.
