<b></b> Pangasius silasi, a fish species endemic to KrishnaRiver in India, reveals a healthy PUFA and nutritionalprofile: Could be a promising species as human food

Abstract

 In recent years Pangasiidae fishes are gaining increased attention, as there is good consumerdemand. Pangasius pangasius was the only known species in south Asia, until the recentdiscovery of Pangasius silasi from India. The bassa fillets of Pangasius boucarti are globallytraded due to its white meat. Having similar characteristic of white meat, P. silasi also appearsto be a promising species. Analysing nutritional composition of P. silasi is important forstrategy formulation aimed at sustainable utilisation of the species. Hence, a comprehensivenutritional profile assessment of P. silasi was undertaken and the results were comparedwith those of other two Pangasids, which are widely traded. Study also evaluated thepotential of this species for mechanised filleting and yield, which is an important parameterin acceptability of fish meat as a marketable product. The results revealed that, P. silasihave fairly high content of protein, n-3 and n-6 fatty acids especially eicosapentaenoic acid(EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and high n-3 to n-6 fatty acid ratio. The high levels ofessential amino acids will position it as superior food source particularly in complementingcereals. Considering its high protein content and healthy PUFA profile, P. silasi emerges as acandidate species for inclusion in human diet at affordable price.  Keywords:Pangasius silasi, Nutritional security, Omega 3, PUFA, South Asia