Botia Dario Research Articles

Assessing the thermal limits and metabolic profiles of small indigenous fish species: Informing conservation and aquaculture in a changing climate

This study explored the thermal tolerance and routine metabolic rate of ten small indigenous fish species from Northeast India: Amblypharyngodon mola, Esomus danrica, Puntius sophore, Gudusia chapra, Heteropneustes fossilis, Botia dario, Lepidocephalichthys guntea, Mystus cavasius, Aplocheilus panchax, and Glossogobius giuris. Fish were acclimated to 20°C, 25°C, and 30°C for two weeks prior to experiments and assessed for critical thermal maxima (CTmax), critical thermal minima (CTmin), lethal thermal maxima (LTmax), oxygen consumption rates, and respiratory quotients using standardized methods. The results revealed significant interspecific variations: CTmax ranged from 36.4°C to 41.7°C, CTmin from 8.7°C to 15.2°C, and LTmax from 41.5°C to 44.9°C. Oxygen consumption rates varied between 0.26 and 1.07 mg O₂/g/h, with respiratory quotients ranging from 0.76 to 1.01. Heteropneustes fossilis (CTmax: 41.7°C at 30°C acclimation) exhibited the highest thermal tolerance, while Amblypharyngodon mola had the lowest (CTmax: 38.2°C at 30°C acclimation). Differences in thermal tolerance between species were statistically significant (p<0.05). Notably, CTmax was positively correlated with oxygen consumption rates, suggesting a connection between metabolic rate and heat tolerance. These findings enhance our understanding of the physiological adaptations of these species to their thermal environments and underscore their conservation needs amidst climate change.

Unveiling the molecular mechanisms of pigmentation control in Queen Loach, Botia dario (Hamilton, 1822): Insights from sesame seed and marigold-induced antityrosinase effects.

Fish pigmentation study can reveal understandings in dermatological research based on functional genomics. Cultured ornamental fish becomes dull coloured and antityrosinase activity through sesame seed may enhance skin colour, which has not been studied. Botia dario is an indigenous fish, having ornamental and aesthetic value and can be studied as a model for fish pigmentation genetics. In this study, fish specimens were fed with 15% marigold petal meal along with 5, 10 and 15% w/w sesame seed in diet. Pigmentation genes, that is, tyr, tyrp1a, asip1, gnaq, kitlga, mc1r, mitf, pax7a, rab38, slc7a11, sox9a, sox10, csf1r, bcdo2 and gsta2 in skin and immunogens, that is, il20, nramp, tlr9 and trail in kidney were studied. Gene expression in tissues revealed enhanced pigmentation and immunity as well as the role of tyr, tyrp1a and asip1 in pigmentation. Immunogenes and blood parameters confirmed the best pigmentation diet. Colorimetric analysis also showed the enhancement of pigmentation. Insights from sesame seed and marigold-induced antityrosinase effects will be applied in aquaculture to develop natural, dietary formulations that will enhance pigmentation in ornamental fish, leading to improved skin colour and market value.

Distribution, abundance and status of Botia dario in the ornamental fish market, Bangladesh

Distribution, abundance and status of Botia dario in the ornamental fish market, Bangladesh

Stock Structure Analysis of the Endangered Queen Loach, Botia dario (Hamilton 1822) from Five Rivers of Northern Bangladesh by Using Morphometrics: Implications for Conservation

Identifying stock is key to sustainable fisheries management and conservation. Using traditional morphometrics (TMR) and image-based truss network analysis (ITNA), we evaluated the stock structure of the endangered queen loach, Botia dario. The study was carried out in the following five stocks in Bangladesh’s northern rivers: the Atrai, Dhorala, Danu, Jamuna, and Padma. The inventory regarding stock structure was investigated using a total of nine traditional morphometrics, 11 ratios, and 23 truss measurements for each individual. To generate 23 ITNA, 12 landmarks were used. To assess variations among the stocks, a principal component analysis (PCA), factor analysis (FA), canonical variate analysis (CVA), and cluster analysis (CA) were performed. Six principal components explained 91.50% of the variation in TMR, while seven principal components explained 73.425% of the variation in ITNA. CVA, using traditional methods and ratios were correctly classified as 65.0%, 42.0%, 64.2%, 89.3%, and 77.5% for Danu, Padma, Jamuna, Dhorala, and Atrai River stocks, respectively, based on original grouped classes. CVA using ITNA was correctly classified as 90.0%, 80.0%, 77.4%, 94.6%, and 98.6% for Danu, Padma, Jamuna, Dhorala, and Atrai River stocks, respectively, based on original grouped classes. CVA analysis based on TMR and ITNA showed that cannonical variates (CV1 to CV3) are related to the whole-body shape. Both TMR and ITNA formed two clusters. In the first cluster, the Jamuna and Atrai River stocks combinedly formed a separate stock based on (TMR). In ITNA, the Dhorala and Atrai River formed as separate stocks from the other four stocks. According to this study, combining TMR and ITNA analysis aids in the differentiation of various B. dario stocks. The stock separation of this species was supposed to be geographic disconnection, waterway nature, and temperature variations. The B. dario stocks are heavily exploited and the species is an ideal nominee for species variation to boost the aquaculture yield. Within-stock distinctions were revealed in this study, necessitating the identification of gene pools and molecular studies to achieve a deeper understanding of the stocks. Through a more scientific approach, this stock structure study may aid in the development of conservation programs for this endangered species.

Study on the Present Status of Endangered Fishes and Productivity of Teesta River Closest to Barrage Region

This study was conducted to monitor the present condition of endangered fishes and productivity of Teesta river closest to Teesta barrage situated in the Lalmonirhat district of Bangladesh. Water and sediment samples were collected twice in a month during the study period from six different (3 upstream and 3 downstream) sites with three replications for each. Required information about threatened fishes was collected from the sampling region associated fishermen and fish markets. The study disclosed over 50 threatened fish species in Teesta river including several threatened fishes namely Bagarius bagarius, Sisor rabdophorus etc. The commonly available endangered fishes were Macrognathus aculiatus, Mastacembelus armatus, Barilius tileo, Raiamas bola, Botia dario, B. lohachata etc. which are rarely available in nationwide. Planktonic flora and fauna determination revealed that comparatively higher density of plankton (n &gt;11500 per liter) as well as more number of planktonic flora (&gt;21 nos.) and fauna (&gt;9 nos.) were monitored in the early monsoon and monsoon season (April-September) and comparatively lower planktonic density (n&lt;10000 per liter) and less number were found in premonsoon season (January-February). The investigation of benthic fauna showed that the riverine ecosystem near to barrage contained 16 species of macro-benthos from different groups. Lastly, it can be noticed that it is very essential to take all effective necessary actions to provide good productivity and conserve the ichthyo diversity of Teesta river that will help to conserve the commonly available endangered and critically endangered fishes of Teesta river.&#x0D; Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.7(3): 577-589, December 2020

A new nematode of the genus Rhabdochona (Rhabdochona) from Botia dario (ornamental fish) from Jiri River, Jiribam, Manipur, India

During a taxonomic study of parasites of freshwater fishes, three new gravid female nematodes of the genus Rhabdochona were recovered from the intestine of a freshwater fish, Botia dario caught from Jiri River. Detail study revealed the specimen as a medium-sized nematode, tapering at both ends with finely striated cuticle, 14 anterior teeth in the funnel-shaped prostome, vulva post-equatorially open, vagina muscular, posteriorly directed with an ovejector, eggs oval, thinshelled and embryonated, tail tip conoidly pointed. Thus, the present species is assigned to the genus Rhabdochona. Prevalence and intensity of infection is 20% (1/5) and 3(3/1) parasite per host, respectively. Comparing the relative characteristics of the two conspecies, the present species closely resembles Rhabdochona (Rhabdochona) acuminata. It differs in a few aspects such as the longer oesophagus, more anteriorly located excretory pore, longer vagina, thin-shelled eggs but smooth-shelled eggs in R.(R) acuminata, conoidly pointed tail tip but bluntly ended in R. (R.) acuminata. Based on these distinguishing characters the present species is described as a new species giving the name Rhabdochona (Rhabdochona) jiribamensis n. sp.

Genetics of colour variation in wild versus cultured queen loach, Botia dario (Hamilton, 1822)

The Queen loach (Botia dario), an ornamental fish species having export potential, belongs to family Cobitidae of order Cypriniformes. The dull colouration in captive condition as compared to nature is a drawback in ornamental fisheries. We report the first comparative transcriptomic analysis of Cultured (CBD) and Natural (NBD) B. dario using bioinformatics tools. Total 26 and 7 key genes for melanin and carotenoid colouration were found, respectively. KEGG pathway annotations of the genes were carried out, to annotate and describe their relevance for pigmentation. The qPCR validation of genes confirmed their expression pattern in the skin and muscle. Differential expression of, slc7a11, asip1, mc1r, dct, tyrp1a, tyr, bcdo2, csf1r, plin2, gsta2, star3 and stard5 in the skin and muscle tissues revealed the reasons for wild versus cultured colour variation. The molecular data was further supported by low yellowness and redness values of CBD skin and muscle in a colorimeter.

Molecular Mechanisms of Natural Carotenoid-based Pigmentation of Queen Loach, Botia dario (Hamilton, 1822) Under Captive Condition

The genetic basis and expression patterns of key genes are important aspects of study to understand the colouration. This trait differs between wild and domesticated fish which is a matter of research. Botia dario is an indigenous fish, having ornamental and aesthetic value, which shows faded appearance in terms of colour in domesticated condition than wild. In the present study the carotenoid-fed B. dario were examined through incorporation of marigold petal meal in the diets at the rate of 5, 10 and 15% w/w along with wild fish. The carotenoid content of tissues that is skin, muscle and intestine along with intensity of colouration increased in a dose dependant manner of carotenoid in the diet. Important carotenoid-based colouration genes that is csf1r, BCDO2, SR-B1, MLN64, STAR5, GSTA2 and PLIN2 were characterized in the fish, to find out their role in fish pigmentation. The significant difference (p < 0.05) in the expression of these genes in different tissues, when compared among carotenoid-fed domesticated and wild fish, revealed the mechanism responsible for faded colouration and also revealed the means to enhance colour in the fish.

Immunity augmentation in Botia dario (Hamilton, 1822) through carotenoid: a dietary approach.

The immunity and health status of ornamental fish is an important aspect, as they are kept in a confined environment and various stressful conditions which lead to depletion of overall colourful appearance and mortality. The carotenoids can act as immunity boosters in captive aquarium system and may be supplemented in the feed as aquarium fish have no access to natural carotenoids. The study aimed to assess the role of carotenoid on the immunity of B. dario. Marigold petal meal is an important source of carotenoids and used in experimental diets. Four immunogenes namely IL20, TLR9, TRAIL, and Nramp in B. dario were characterized and also studied for their relative expression in the kidney after feeding the fish with marigold petal meal supplemented diet. The expression pattern of the genes was compared with the fish of nature. The IL20 and Nramp gene were upregulated significantly (p < 0.05) in the fish of nature as compared to the experimental fish at the 60th day of feeding carotenoid-rich diet. But the TLR9 and TRAIL gene was upregulated significantly (p < 0.05) in experimental fish as compared to nature. The haematological parameters of fish after feeding with the experimental enriched diet for 60days also confirmed the role of carotenoids in immunity.

Dynamics of tandemly repeated DNA sequences during evolution of diploid and tetraploid botiid loaches (Teleostei: Cobitoidea: Botiidae).

Polyploidization has played an important role in the evolution of vertebrates, particularly at the base of Teleostei–an enormously successful ray-finned fish group with additional genome doublings on lower taxonomic levels. The investigation of post-polyploid genome dynamics might provide important clues about the evolution and ecology of respective species and can help to decipher the role of polyploidy per se on speciation. Few studies have attempted to investigate the dynamics of repetitive DNA sequences in the post-polyploid genome using molecular cytogenetic tools in fishes, though recent efforts demonstrated their usefulness. The demonstrably monophyletic freshwater loach family Botiidae, branching to evolutionary diploid and tetraploid lineages separated >25 Mya, offers a suited model group for comparing the long-term repetitive DNA evolution. For this, we integrated phylogenetic analyses with cytogenetical survey involving Giemsa- and Chromomycin A3 (CMA3)/DAPI stainings and fluorescence in situ hybridization with 5S/45S rDNA, U2 snDNA and telomeric probes in representative sample of 12 botiid species.The karyotypes of all diploids were composed of 2n = 50 chromosomes, while majority of tetraploids had 2n = 4x = 100, with only subtle interspecific karyotype differences. The exceptional karyotype of Botia dario (2n = 4x = 96) suggested centric fusions behind the 2n reduction. Variable patterns of FISH signals revealed cases of intraspecific polymorphisms, rDNA amplification, variable degree of correspondence with CMA3+ sites and almost no phylogenetic signal. In tetraploids, either additivity or loci gain/loss was recorded. Despite absence of classical interstitial telomeric sites, large blocks of interspersed rDNA/telomeric regions were found in diploids only.We uncovered different molecular drives of studied repetitive DNA classes within botiid genomes as well as the advanced stage of the re-diploidization process in tetraploids. Our results may contribute to link genomic approach with molecular cytogenetic analyses in addressing the origin and mechanism of this polyploidization event.

Length-weight relationships of four small indigenous fish species from an inland artisanal fishery, Bangladesh

This study reports the length–weight relationships (LWRs) of four small indigenous species, Trichogaster lalius (Hamilton, 1822), Nandus meni (Hossain & Sarker, 2013), Lepidocephalichthys annandalei (Chaudhuri, 1912) and Botia dario (Hamilton, 1822) collected between July 2015 and August 2016 from fishermen's catches landed in an inland fish landing center, northeastern Bangladesh. In the study, a new maximum total length (TL) is given for L. annandalei and LWRs of three species T. lalius, N. meni and L. annandalei for the first time in FishBase. Estimated LWRs were W = .014 TL3.17, (r2 = .982) for T. lalius, W = .006 TL3.38, (r2 = .961) for N. meni, W = .004 TL3.27, (r2 = .965) for L. annandalei and W = .020 TL2.87, (r2 = .978) for B. dario.

Length-weight relationships of 12 indigenous fish species in the Gajner Beel floodplain (NW Bangladesh)

The length–weight relationships (LWRs) were studied for 814 individuals covering eight families and 12 species of fish, e.g., Botia dario, Botia lohachata, Channa orientalis, Esomus danricus, Heteropneustes fossilis, Macrognathus pancalus, Nandus nandus, Ompok pabda, Pethia phutunio, Pethia ticto, Trichogaster fasciata and Trichogaster lalius captured from the Gajner beel floodplain, northwestern (NW) Bangladesh. Samples were collected occasionally from catches of fishermen from November 2014 to October 2015 using different types of traditional fishing gear, including gill net (mesh size ranges from 1.0 to 3.0 cm), cast net (mesh size ranges from 1.0 to 2.0 cm), square lift net (mesh size ~1.0 cm) and conical and box trap. The total length (TL) and body weight (BW) were measured for each individual. The allometric co-efficient b values ranged between 2.64 (B. lohachata) to 3.27 (N. nandus) and were highly significant, with p < .001 for all species. Additionally, for the first time, the study provides LWR information for B. dario, B. lohachata, E. danricus, O. pabda, T. lalius and P. phutunio, beneficial for fishery biologists and to update the online database (FishBase). The study also recorded a maximum length for P. phutunio. The present observations are significant for the sustainable management and conservation of these fishes in the Gajner beel floodplain, NW Bangladesh and the surrounding ecosystems.

Life-History Traits of the Endangered Carp Botia dario (Cyprinidae) from the Ganges River in Northwestern Bangladesh

Life-History Traits of the Endangered Carp Botia dario (Cyprinidae) from the Ganges River in Northwestern Bangladesh

Effect of dietaryWolffia arrhiza and Spirulina platensison growth performance and pigmentation of Queen loachBotia dario(Hamilton, 1822)

The present Present experiment was conducted for 75 days in triplicates groups in 18 aquaria of 50 L each to study the effect of Wolffia arrhiza and Spirulina platensis on growth and pigmentation of Botia dario. Six isonitrogenous diets were prepared with 350 g/kg crude protein (CP) level. Diet 1 (T1) was prepared without fortification of spirulina and wolffia. T2 diet was prepared with spirulina as supplement of carotenoids. Similarly, T3, T4, T5 and T6 diets were prepared by substituting 25, 50, 75 and 100 g/kg of CP from spirulina with wolffia, respectively. Significant differences (p .05). Thus, it can be concluded that diet containing 100 g/kg spirulina can be effective for better growth while diet containing 25 g/kg spirulina and 150 g/kg wolffia can be effective for higher survival and pigmentation in Botia dario.

Present status of fish diversity in the Beel Kumari in relation to fish sanctuary and fishing gears

The study was conducted on Beel Kumari beel (wetland) in Rajshahi, Bangladesh from October 2013 to September 2014. A total of 52 species of fish were recorded and the dominant species was Mystus tengara (Tanagra (9.75%). Exotic species like bighead carp (Aristichthys nobilis), silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio) were also commonly found. Of the indigenous species, Ompok bimaculatus, Puntius sarana, Pseudeutropius atherinoides, Botia dario, Mystus aor and Chitala chitala were abundant, though these species were rare before the establishment of the fish sanctuary. Four groups of fishing gears i.e. net, trap, spear and harpoons and line fishing were found to use, among them 8 types of net, 7 types of trap, 4 types of spear and harpoon and 4 types of line fishing were recorded. Among these gill net contributed to the highest catch (32%) and push net was the lowest (6%). Most of the respondents (80%) were found to believe that their fish catch had increased considerably due to impact of fish sanctuary establishment and effective community based fisheries management approach employed in this beel.

Present status of fish diversity in the Beel Kumari in relation to fish sanctuary and fishing gears

The study was conducted on Beel Kumari beel (wetland) in Rajshahi, Bangladesh from October 2013 to September 2014. A total of 52 species of fish were recorded and the dominant species was Mystus tengara (Tanagra (9.75%). Exotic species like bighead carp (Aristichthys nobilis), silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio) were also commonly found. Of the indigenous species, Ompok bimaculatus, Puntius sarana, Pseudeutropius atherinoides, Botia dario, Mystus aor and Chitala chitala were abundant, though these species were rare before the establishment of the fish sanctuary. Four groups of fishing gears i.e. net, trap, spear and harpoons and line fishing were found to use, among them 8 types of net, 7 types of trap, 4 types of spear and harpoon and 4 types of line fishing were recorded. Among these gill net contributed to the highest catch (32%) and push net was the lowest (6%). Most of the respondents (80%) were found to believe that their fish catch had increased considerably due to impact of fish sanctuary establishment and effective community based fisheries management approach employed in this beel.

Survey and systematic analysis of Fish fauna of erstwhile Udhampur District, Jammu region, with new records of Barilius radiolatus Gunther, Botia lohachata Chaudhari, Botia dario (Ham. Buch.) and Glyptothorax punjabensis Mirza and Kashmiri

Ichthyofaunistic survey in lotic and lentic water bodies of erstwhile Udhampur District, Jammu region, has revealed the presence of 76 fish species belonging to 6 orders. 14 families and 45 genera. Glyptothorax punjabensis Mirza and Kashmiri is the new record for country. Barilius radiolatus Gunther, Botia lohachata Chaudhari Botia dario (Ham. Buch.) are the new records for the state The list also includes Catla catla, Laheo rohita, Ctenopharyngodon idellus, Hypothalmichthys molitrix, Cyprinus carpio communis, Cyprinus carpio specularis and Salmo trutta fario stocked by the state fishery department in the district. There is dominance of Cypriniformes (51 species), followed by Siluriformes (18 species), Perciformes (3 species) Synbranchiformes (2 species), and Beloniformes and Salmoniformes (1 species each). Fishing methods commonly employed are enlisted. Various causes of fish decline and their conservation measures in the district have also been described.

Length-weight relationship and reproductive parameters of Botia dario (Hamilton, 1822) in Assam, India

The length-weight relationships, spawning season, sex ratio, size at first maturity and fecundity of Botia dario (Hamilton, 1822), also known as the Bengal loach, were analyzed based on 556 specimens collected from the wetlands of Majuli Island, Assam between June 2012 and May 2013. The sex ratio (M : F) was 1 : 0.68, differing significantly (P < 0.05) from a 1 : 1 ratio. Size at first maturity (Lm50) was estimated as 6.8 cm for males and 7.4 cm for females. Analysis of monthly variations in the gonado-somatic index (GSI), the monthly proportions of macroscopic gonadal maturity, and the ova diameter suggest a prolonged spawning season of B. dario from May to August, with a peak in July for both males and females (GSI = 15.0 in females; 7.0 in males). Absolute fecundity varied from 2523 to 51 377, with a mean of 18 367 ± 1254 oocytes per ovary. A positive correlation was recorded between total fecundity and body weight (r2 = 0.678).

THREATENED FISHES OF THE WORLD: Botia dario (Hamilton, 1822) (Cypriniformes: Cobitidae)

Bengal loach Botia dario is a valuable food fish in South Asian countries including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal. However, the wild popula- tion is declining due to heavy harvest, habitat loss and its ecological chang- es. This paper suggests actions for the conservation of the lasting isolated populations of B. dario in Asian countries.

Identification of the Most Potential Indigenous Ornamental Fishes of South Tripura District in India for Commercial Production

Detailed survey was conducted with the 70 aquarium hobbyist, 8 major aquarium fish traders and 30 fishery professionals of Tripura state and was identified five most important indigenous ornamental fishes namely Botia dario (Hamilton, 1882), Trichogaster fasciata Bloch and Schneider (=Colisa fasciatus), Danio rerio (Hamilton, 1802) (=Brachydanio rerio), Trichogaster lalius (Hamilton, 1802) (=Colisa lalia) and Pseudambasis baculis (Hamilton and Buchanan, 1882) having great export potential. B. dario was identified as the most potential species by hobbyists (85.91%), followed by D. rerio (= Brachydanio rerio) (71.83%) and T. fasciata (=Colisa fasciatus) (70.42%). Traders identified B. dario (87.5%), followed by T. fasciata (=Colisa fasciatus) (50.0%) and P. baculis (37.5%) as the most potential indigenous fish for trade. Aquarium hobbyists' showed highest interest for T. fasciata (=Colisa fasciatus) (27.8%) followed by B. dario (24.1%) to keep in the aquarium, if they will be available in the local market. Hobbyists also selected colour and easy availability (23.94%) followed by easy maintenance (15.49%), movement (12.67%) and appearance (8.45%), while selecting an indigenous ornamental fish for trade. The indigenous ornamental fishes of Tripura are not explored due to lack of scientific information and lack of promotion. A well organized program for collection, identification, selection and captive breeding of these indigenous ornamental fishes will be beneficial to the development of market as well as conservation of germplasm.