Abstract

Aquariculture broadly encompasses aquaculture and its related practices of breeding, rearing and harvesting aquatic organisms. This has emerged as a pivotal sector in India, intertwining economic growth, social development and environmental sustainability. Geographically India is bestowed with vast coastline, extensive riverine systems, reservoirs, ponds, tanks and inland water resources that greatly potentiates the booming of the aquariculture not just as a food production industry but a multidimensional pillar of sustainability. Economically, it fuels livelihoods and exports; socially, it ensures nutrition and inclusive growth and environmentally, it holds potential for biodiversity conservation and eco-restoration. The appropriate policies, technological innovations and community participation are already entwining in turn heading India to a leading position in showcasing aquariculture as a model of sustainable development. This article chiefly highlights the culture of the ornamental fishes which are often referred to as the “Living Jewels”. These are the graceful creatures that boosts mood, economy and promote low-cost and effective enhancement to the livelihood of significant percentage of population globally. They are well-documented instances of the traditional axiom “small tanks can bring big fortunes”. Ornamental fish farming, in particular is referred to as “aqua-ornamental culture,” is the breeding, rearing and trade of attractive and colourful fish species kept in aquariums and garden ponds. These fishes are prized for their aesthetic appeal, colour, form and unique behaviour rather than for consumption. Some of the popular freshwater ornamental fish species in India are Goldfish (Carassius auratus), Guppy (Poecilia reticulata), Molly (Poecilia sphenops), Swordtail (Xiphophorus helleri), Angel fish (Pterophyllum scalare), Koi carp (Cyprinus carpio koi). The marine ornamental fish farming in India are economically valued; though are technologically demanding. Some of these are Clownfish (Amphiprion spp.), Damsel fish, Butterfly fish, Seahorses. Ornamental fish farming is a vital component of aquariculture - combining economic potential, social value and ecological importance. India is the second-largest fish producer in the world and ornamental fish farming is emerging as a niche yet growing focussing on the areas of productivity, quality, sustainability, technology infusion and income generation for fisherfolk. The PM Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), a part of the Blue Revolution is designed to modernize India’s fisheries sector. Within it, ornamental fish farming is being promoted as a sustainable, high-value and employment-generating activity.