CMFRI develops captive breeding tech for high-value marine ornamental fishes

The aquarium business is set to get a major boost with ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute developing captive breeding technologies of two high-value marine ornamental fishes — Azure damsel and Ornate goby.

Scientists of Vizhinjam Regional Centre of the institute developed and standardised seed production technologies for these highly sought-after marine ornamental fish species. This is expected to open up bright prospects for aquarium enterprises and marine ornamental fish aquaculture in the country, B.Santhosh, Head of Vizhinjam Regional Centre of CMFRI said.

The high demand and market value of these fishes, coupled with the relatively low cost of production, make it an attractive venture for aspiring entrepreneurs. The economic feasibility study proved that a medium-scale seed production unit with an annual production of 24,000 juveniles would fetch an annual income of around ₹12 lakh. Both species are desirable with their beauty, vibrant colours, and captivating aquarium behaviour.

Azure damsel is a reef-associated fish with bright blue and deep yellow colours. This is over-exploited from its natural habitat, which is now considered under the vulnerable (VU) category. The current market value of this fish in India is around ₹350/fish, and the international market rate is $15-25/fish.

Ornate goby, a popular variety in marine aquariums, captivates with its alluring colours, ornated patterns, and curious behaviour. Its striking pectoral fins, adorned with five vertical rows of white dots, further enhance its visual appeal. This hardy species is a valuable asset to marine aquaria, as it plays a key role in cleaning sand and maintaining a pristine tank environment. Its peaceful nature and compatibility with other species make it an ideal choice for community tanks, where it can thrive without causing disturbances or posing threats to tank mates.

A marketable-sized (5-8 cm) fish costs around ₹250 in India, while online retail trade price in international markets is $15 to 30.

He said that the development would unfold new avenues for sustainable production of these, reducing pressure on wild populations and contributing to the conservation of delicate coral reef ecosystems.

These technologies are now available for dissemination to potential entrepreneurs for commercial-scale production. Any aquarist or fish farmer can easily adopt the seed production techniques of these species by simply adopting the protocol developed by CMFRI, he said.