The Study of Freshwater Indigenous Ornamental Fishes Available in Selected Sites of Southern Bengal and Their Present Status in Natural Habitats

Abstract

Aims: To study the diversity of Ornamental fishes as native species by origin from certain parts of Southern Bengal, have importance in export world of ornamental trading in and across India along with their status in natural habitats. Study Design: An intricate survey was performed along with formal-informal interviews Place and Duration of Study: Survey sites included Howrah, North 24 Paraganas and South 24 Paraganas, Fish Markets, Pet Markets, and Several Fish Farms. Methodology: Live specimens after collecting from natural water bodies like ponds, canals, rivers with the help of fishing nets and gears, are immediately preserved in 5% formalin. Later identification and further investigations are completed in the laboratory. Results: 70 native species from 9 orders were enlisted to for their potentiality but few are exporting from Kolkata market and have gained popularity. 23 indigenous varieties are regularly exporting from Southern Bengal. Some of those species can be kept commercially in aquarium without hurting their biology. Conclusion: This entire practice of export and domestic supply rely upon mostly wild capture which is unorganised and sometimes unauthorised, ultimately impacts on declination of population and downward indication of biodiversity. Additionally, environmental issues and also anthropogenic activities such as habitat destruction, fragmentation, alteration of water quality due to water pollution, agri-based effluents etc. confirm their loss in nature.  Finally, this study recommends that appropriate managements on breeding and culture, quality feed development, consciousness about the species, awareness on the role of species in ecological terms, proper training can only forbid these native wealth from extinction in near future.