ICAR-CMFRI Achieves Breakthrough in Captive Breeding of High-Value Marine Ornamental Fish

In a recent event at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Kochi, Dr. J. K. Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries), ICAR, emphasized significant advancements in marine ornamental fish aquaculture. He highlighted the successful captive breeding of two high-value ornamental fish species, Azure damsel (Chrysiptera hemicyanea) and the Ornate goby (Istiogobius ornatus), accomplished by the Mariculture Division of ICAR-CMFRI’s Vizhinjam Regional Centre. 

Azure damsel, a vibrant reef-associated species native to the Indo-West Pacific, faces vulnerability due to over-exploitation. For the first time in India, ICAR-CMFRI has standardized larval rearing techniques for this species. With a market value ranging from Rs 250-350 per fish domestically and USD 15-25 internationally, this advancement positions India to meet the increasing demand for this sought-after species. Similarly, the Ornate goby, known for its vivid colors and intricate patterns, holds immense export potential. Previously sourced predominantly from Sri Lanka, its newly standardized breeding technique by ICAR-CMFRI opens avenues for sustainable production in India. This species, valued at Rs 200-250 domestically and USD 15-30 internationally for marketable-sized fish, thrives in sandy coral reef ecosystems.

Dr. Jena ceremoniously released the seeds of these ornamental species to marine aquarium entrepreneurs. Additionally, he introduced Cadalmin Microfin, an innovative micro-feed tailored for the early-stage rearing of cobia and pompano larvae, developed by the Marine Biotechnology, Fish Nutrition, and Health Division of ICAR-CMFRI.

The event also saw the launch of several knowledge-sharing resources. A Field Guide for digital marine fisheries data management, designed to enhance field staff capabilities using the Fish Catch Survey and Analysis (FCSA) system, was released to ensure accurate and sustainable fisheries data collection. Other publications included a training manual titled Know Your Marine Biodiversity and Environment – MarBiE Training Series-3, the latest edition of the Marine Fisheries Information Service (MFiS), and a pamphlet detailing the culture of Colurella adriatica, a super-minuscule rotifer essential for larval fish rearing.

During his interactions with scientists, staff, and research scholars, Dr. Jena highlighted the importance of transforming research outcomes into actionable benefits for stakeholders and communities. Dr. Grinson George, Director of ICAR-CMFRI, was also present at the event.