Over two decades of clandestinely introduced African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell 1822) culture in India: Issues and experiences

Abstract

A K Singh

The first unofficial introduction of African catfish Clarias gariepinus in India was possibly during 1995-1996 when farmers and aqua-culturists got attracted to culture it. Fast and impressive growth of the fish created especial interest amongst farmers and aqua-culturists who started growing it well even in derelict waters without any proper husbandry. There was mooted discussion amongst scientists on the pros and cons of rapid adoption of the fish in aquaculture without any standard operational practice (SOP). Farmers and aqua-culturists rapidly adopted its intensive culture using variety of cheap feed and slaughterhouse wastes while scientists started debating adverse environmental impacts and ecological concerns of its heedless spread in aquaculture in the entire country.