With the inland aquaculture in the State being dominated by Indian Major Carps such as Catla, Rohu, and Mrigal, Kerala is now exploring ways to promote native freshwater species such as Varal (Snakehead murrel) and Karimeen (Pearl spot) among fish farmers. The Fisheries department will explore a market for native inland fish species in the wake of farmers recently switching over to other freshwater fish to ensure marketability and better price.
A senior Fisheries department officer told The Hindu that a relatively low demand for Catla (Catla catla), Rohu (Labeo rohita) and Mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala) among consumers and higher commercial value for Snakehead and Pearl spot has prompted the department to promote the farming of native freshwater species. The main stumbling block to the promotion of native species is the absence of quality fish seeds.
