Resource potentiality of indigenous ornamental fishes in West Bengal

Ornamental fishes are often called as ‘living Jewell’ due to their colour, shape, behaviour and origin. They are peaceful, generally tiny, available in attractive colours and capable of living in confined spaces. The brilliant, flamboyant colour and uncommon appearance of the fish appeal to one and all children and aged alike. The trade in ornamental fish and aquarium supplies is a multi-million dollar industry that spans the globe. In West Bengal with its highly conducive climatic conditions provides scope for the development of indigenous ornamental fisheries. In the present study, different water resource (rivers and water bodies) of all the districts of West Bengal have been surveyed for make a database of natural ornamental fishes. During the survey period a total number of 77 natural indigenous ornamental fish species were collected and identified belonging to 09 orders, 26 families and 50 genera. From the survey order, Cypriniformes shows the maximum species variation, followed by Perciformes and Siluriformes. Many of them have huge market demand and value also. This sector assumes special significance due to its huge potential in providing employment and income to the young people of West Bengal.