SKUAST-Kashmir scientist succeeded in breeding Rosy
barb, Pethia conchonius
Division of Fish Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Fisheries, SKUAST-K have
successfully conducted the breeding of an ornamental freshwater fish commonly known as
Rosy barb, (Pethia conchonius). Rosy barb is a subtropical
freshwater cyprinid fish found in southern Asia. This species of barb grows up to 6 inches
(14 cm) in length. Juveniles possess large, deeply forked tails, which are large in proportion
to their body. Their colour becomes bolder during their mating periods. Males have more
vibrant colours and females are slightly plumper. In addition to this, females do not have any
black colour in their fins while males do. They may weigh up to 340g (12 ounces) when fully
grown but can weigh much less during adolescence. They become mature at 63.5mm
(2.5 inches). The fish has commercial importance in the aquarium trade and is one of several
species of barbs used to create hybrid versions of “tiger barbs”. The experiment was
conducted by the B.F.Sc. 4th year student, Owais Hamid under the guidance of Dr. Mohd
Ashraf Rather, Scientist, Division of Fish Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of
Fisheries, SKUAST-K.
 |
| Breeding and breeding setup of Rosy barb, Pethia conchonius |
The breeding activity of Rosy barb was carried out by manipulating
the temperature conditions. The eggs were successfully collected and their hatching process
was observed. The methodology can be used for brood stock and seed production of Rosy
barb in the valley. Ornamental fisheries are currently gaining importance as a means of
livelihood due to their tremendous prospectus and economic value in the international fish
trade and aquaculture. The practice of ornamental fish keeping in the glass tank is a very
common tradition, being the second most preferred hobby in the world after photography
mainly due to the bright coloration and natural stress relieving property of ornamental fishes.
With the result large numbers of ornamental fish keeping hobbyists are increasing day by
day, particularly in our valley. Many young entrepreneurs in Kashmir are investing their
money in this venture as it ensures high income generation and involves low investment
aided by high social acceptance. Rosy barb, also being a fish of high ornamental value, can
now be reproduced in captive conditions and offers a tremendous scope for young
aquapreneurs of the UT of Jammu and Kashmir. Prof. (Dr.) Irfan Ahmad, Head, Div. of Fish
Genetics and Biotechnology congratulate Dr. Ashraf and Owais Hamid for successfully
breeding this ornamental fish. Moreover, Prof. (Dr.) Farooz Ahmad Bhat, Dean, Faculty of
Fisheries, SKUAST-K and Hon’ble Vice chancellor SKUAST-K, Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad
Ganai have congratulated the whole team and have pinned hope of decimation of this
technology for the local ichthyofauna for conservation and propagation.
The Faculty of
Fisheries SKUAST-K located at Rangil, Nagabal, Ganderbal offering B.FSc, M.FSc and Ph.D courses in
various disciplines of Fisheries.
SKUAST scientist succeeded in breeding Rosy barb, Pethia conchonius
#Ornamental fishes breeding at Kashmir valley