The diversity of native fish species in Bangladesh’s freshwater bodies is rapidly declining. Of the 260 freshwater fish species, 143 are categorized as small fish. Factors such as population growth, decreasing water bodies, and excessive fishing are disrupting fish breeding and migration habitats. Consequently, 64 species are now on the verge of extinction. However, scientists at the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI) are making dedicated efforts to restore these lost species. They have successfully bred 40 fish species, with 12 species now being extensively cultivated in hatcheries nationwide, which has contributed to increased production and reduced market prices.
BFRI researchers have successfully bred fish species like Pabda, Gulsha, Tangra, Koi, Magur, Sing, Guji Ai, Desi Sarpunti, Jatpunti, Bata, Balachata, Kuchia, Kursha, Khalisha, Bheda, Gutum, Dhela, Gajar, Foli, Chital, Gania, Mahashol, Bairali, Bhagna, Angus, Batasi, Puiya, Kakila, Piyali, and Rani. At present, hatcheries are producing 12 species, including Sing, Magur, Koi, Tangra, Pabda, Gulsha, and Bairali.
In 2022, scientists achieved artificial breeding of Shal Baim fish fry, and research is ongoing to increase production and distribute them to hatcheries across the country. Small indigenous fish are rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and iodine, which help strengthen the immune system. To restore endangered species, BFRI has collected 88 fish species from rivers, canals, haors, and ponds, preserving them in its ‘Live Gene Bank.’ The institute is working on breeding and producing large quantities of fry for species where artificial reproduction has been successful, aiming to boost fish production and create employment opportunities.
Currently, special attention is being given to the long, cylindrical, spineless Shal Baim, a highly popular fish. BFRI’s Live Gene Bank holds 88 preserved fish species from various water bodies, with continued efforts to produce fry of successfully bred species. According to Dr. Md. Mashiur Rahman, a senior BFRI scientist, earlier research on conserving endangered fish was limited to the Mymensingh freshwater research center. Now, similar studies are also being conducted at BFRI’s sub-centers in Santahar (Bogra), Saidpur (Nilphamari), and Jessore. The ongoing research aims to restore all endangered fish species and make them available for consumption again.
BFRI remains committed to preserving and reviving native fish species, ensuring the protection of Bangladesh’s aquatic biodiversity through conservation initiatives, particularly via the live gene bank.
LND/SAKIB
