India commands the third largest position among the major fish producing countries. It is also the second largest aquaculture fish producer in the world.
7% of global fish production is contributed from India. India has more than 10% of the global fish biodiversity and is one of the 17-mega biodiversity rich countries. The number of people engaged in fisheries and its allied activities is estimated to be around14 million.
Andhra Pradesh takes the top position as the largest fish producer in India which is followed by West Bengal and Gujarat. 70% is from inland sector and about 50% of the total production is from culture fisheries. Exports to 75 countries around the world are met by more than 50 different types of fish and shellfish products from India.
The largest share in agricultural exports from India is estimated to be 13.77 lakh tonnes in terms of quantity and Rs. 45,106.89 crores in value which is contributed by Fish and Fish products
This sector contributes to about 0.91% of the GDP and 5.23% to the Agricultural GVA of India. This contribution from Fish and Fish products are met from different habitats.
• 1,518 species from the marine environment
• 113 from brackish waters
• 877 from freshwater habitats
• 291 exotic fish species.
Freshwater fish spend most or all of their life in rivers and lakes, having a salinity of less than 0.5 ppt. 40% of all known species of fish are from fresh water habitats.
They can further be divided into two broad groups based on the water temperature.
Blogger:
Dr. Sathish Prasad
Senior Scientist – Aquatic Animal Health
Growel Innovation Center,
RS NO.57, Chevuru Village, Sriharipuram Panchayat, Mudinepalli Mandal, Krishna District – Andhra Pradesh India – 521329
Email: [email protected]