13-05-2025
NBFGR releases fingerlings of newly identified yellow catfish into Chalakudy river
Kochi: National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (
NBFGR
), Kochi, successfully released advanced fingerlings of a newly identified
yellow catfish
species,
Horabagrus obscurus
, (over five inches) into
Chalakudy river
. Fishlings were released near Vettilappara and aim to restore the species in its natural environment and boost its population in the river species was recently discovered by NBFGR researchers in the river.
It is a unique yellow catfish distinguished by its greenish-brown mottled appearance, slim build, shorter barbels and a smaller humeral spot. This remarkable fish can reach a length of 408mm and potentially weigh over 2kg. Recognizing its distinct features and ecological and economic significance, Peninsular Aquatic Genetics Resources (PAGR) centre in NBFGR developed a successful breeding method for the ranching initiative was launched by CMFRI director Grinson George, who spoke on the importance of ranching and reintroducing native species that are non-disruptive to ecosystem. NBFGR director Kajal Chakravarthy said that Chalakudy river is the sole habitat for all three species of Horabagrus genus. PAGR team has now successfully bred and released all three species, including black-collared yellow catfish (H. nigricollaris) and yellow catfish (H. brachysoma), last year. He emphasized the need to study long-term effects of these ranching a related initiative to improve local community livelihoods, fishing equipment was distributed to tribespeople from Mukkumpuzha Unnathi of Athiramapally panchayat. Under the tribal sub-plan project, 20 fishermen received essential fishing gear, including gill nets, fish and net carry bags, and headlamps to enhance their fishing skills and contribute to their economic welfare.
