The Chocolate Mahseer, scientifically known as Neolissochilus hexagonolepis and locally called 'Kha Saw' in Meghalaya, is a highly prized freshwater fish native to the rivers and streams of Northeast India. Renowned for its rich, flavourful, and almost boneless meat, the fish has gained immense popularity among consumers, making it a sought-after delicacy. Priced between Rs. 400-500 per kilogram, it has become a valuable commodity in local markets, ensuring a steady demand.
This growing demand has opened up new opportunities for farmers, particularly small and marginal ones, to diversify their income sources. With the increasing interest in fish culture, Chocolate Mahseer farming has emerged as a profitable venture. When managed properly, this fish can be successfully cultivated in tanks and ponds, contributing to job creation and promoting economic stability in the region.
Basic Preparation with Chocolate Mahseer Farming
For successful mahseer farming, the first step is selecting healthy brood stock. Fish should be procured from consistent hatcheries as they consist of healthy broods. The ideal places are government-owned hatcheries in states such as Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Sikkim. Female fish should have an optimal weight of 200-300 grams and males 50-100 grams. Healthy brood fish will result in greater spawning success and the survival of fingerlings.
Clean water with good aeration and suitable temperature is a prerequisite for bringing up chocolate mahseer. The fish also grows well at 18-22°C in clean, aerated water. As it will imitate the climate of hilly areas where they thrive. Any ordinary cement tank with a 2-3 fish per square meter stocking capacity is adequate even for small farm cultivation.
It is the water quality that assumes importance in breeding and survival. The pH should be kept between 7.5-8.5, and oxygen above 5mg/L. Water changes and filtration systems ensure that conditions are kept at their best.
Feeding and Nutrition
Nutrition is critical for the proper growth of chocolate mahseer. Fry, which are young fish, consume zooplankton as their main diet. The fingerlings which are a little older ones eat plant material. Natural and formulated feed must be used in a controlled farming environment. Rice bran and mustard oil cake in a 1:1 ratio can be used as a starter feed.
At the onset, provide feed at 5% of the body weight of the fish for the initial two months. As the fish matures, the feeding ratio must be lessened progressively to 4% in the subsequent two months and 3% thereafter.
Adding local herbs and natural supplements would increase fish health as well as growth rates. Constant observation of the feed consumed and quantity adjustment depending on fish size. The regular observation ensures optimal use of feed and economy.
Breeding and Seed Production
Chocolate mahseer is a batch spawner in nature. It has three breeding seasons per year, namely January-February, May-June, and July-September. This particular characteristic makes the farmers able to raise fish seeds several times a year. Breeding time needs to be correctly identified. The males release milt when they are pressed softly on the belly.
The females exhibit a swollen pinkish vent and a soft abdomen. Natural spawning is possible with well-maintained tanks without the application of hormone treatment. Hormones such as Ovafish (0.2-0.3ml/kg for males and 0.6ml/kg for females) may be applied to induce spawning but in case of necessity only.
Challenges and Management Strategies
One of the most serious challenges in farming chocolate mahseer is disease prevention. Proper nutrition and clean water greatly help to minimize infections. Fungal infections can be caused by stagnant water. Improper nutrition may result in the body darkening and slowing down the growth.
Cotton wool disease and tail rot are other frequent issues. Water quality checks, proper aeration, and not overcrowding also prevent most of the diseases. Once infections manifest symptoms, instantaneous actions should be taken. Actions such as the use of disinfectants and treatment of water are advisable to avert losses.
Economic Potential and Market Opportunities
Chocolate mahseer has a high market value, thus proving to be a rewarding venture for farmers. Its exceptional flavor and popularity in local markets guarantee good returns. The fish is mainly sold fresh, with little processing involved. Fishermen purchase licenses to catch seasonal mahseer in Meghalaya and other hill states.
Aquaculture and stock enhancement are becoming more popular due to the species' near-threatened status. State governments are establishing farms and hatcheries to promote the species' production after realizing its economic worth. Farmers who practice mahseer farming contribute to the preservation of this priceless fish species in addition to receiving a steady income.
Future Prospects and Sustainable Growth
For mahseer farming to succeed, several factors need to be addressed. A steady supply of quality seeds has to be provided, which can be done by well-managed hatcheries. The formulation of low-cost feeds with best Feed Conversion Ratios (FCR) will directly affect profitability. Well-organized marketing channels and better transport facilities will ensure that farmers reach the buyers at fair prices.
Water quality management, disease control measures, and safeguarding against natural predators also have to be given high priority for sustained success. As the mahseer grows slowly, genetic enhancement via selective breeding or biotechnology may boost its potential production. The growth rate can also be enhanced with environmental manipulation and judicious supplementary feeds.
Chocolate mahseer aquaculture may emerge as a lucrative and sustainable industry through increased research, government support, and farmer education. Farmers will not only improve their earnings but will also help sustain this symbolic fish species by following best practices.
Fish farming of chocolate mahseer in Northeast India promises significant revenue with proper pond management, feeding, and disease control. This practice not only offers financial benefits but also aids in the conservation of a valuable species. By engaging in mahseer aquaculture, farmers help preserve their natural heritage while supporting rural livelihoods. With dedication, this approach can protect biodiversity and boost local economies.
