Prospect of Small Indigenous Fish (SIF) Culture in Assam

Abstract

Assam is an abode of hundreds of small indigenous fish species (SIF) which are used as highly nutritious food and preparation of traditional dishes by the ethnic groups. As most of the population are fish eaters, the demand for fish is ever increasing. Rampant fishing, destruction as well as shrinkage of fishing habitats and above all, our ignorance about the true value of so called ‘trash fish’ have already wiped out many of our indigenous small fish species. People in general, are not aware of the importance of small fish other than their food value. The sub-tropical climate and rich water resources of the state provide good opportunity for small fish culture. This status paper highlights the importance of SIF as food, aesthetic, bio-controlling agent and therapeutic values and also their rearing prospects in captive conditions.