India is one of the leading producers of fish in the world, both in terms of inland fisheries and marine fisheries. The Indian fisheries sector contributes significantly to the economy, providing livelihood opportunities to millions of people and serving as a vital source of nutrition. With a diverse range of aquatic ecosystems including rivers, lakes, reservoirs, coastal waters, and the ocean, India is home to a variety of fish species suited for commercial fishing, aquaculture, and domestic consumption.
This article highlights top fish varieties in India, their characteristics, regions of availability, and commercial importance.
1. Rohu (Labeo rohita)
Rohu is one of the most widely cultivated freshwater fish varieties in India. It belongs to the Carp family and is an essential species in aquaculture due to its high growth rate and adaptability.
- Type: Freshwater fish
- Regions: Ganges and Yamuna river basins, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal
- Characteristics: Firm flesh, mild flavor, high protein content
- Uses: Table fish, curries, fried dishes
2. Catla (Catla catla)
Catla, another major freshwater fish, is a fast-growing species popular in aquaculture. It has a distinct large head and upturned mouth, making it easy to identify.
- Type: Freshwater fish
- Regions: Ganga, Yamuna, Brahmaputra river systems, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha
- Characteristics: Tender meat, mild taste, low-fat content
- Uses: Table fish, fish curry, frying
3. Hilsa (Tenualosa ilisha)
Hilsa, also known as Ilish, is considered the “King of Fish” in India, especially in West Bengal and Odisha. It is a highly prized anadromous fish (living in seawater but migrating to rivers to breed).
- Type: Marine and freshwater (brackish water)
- Regions: Ganges River, Bay of Bengal, Odisha, West Bengal
- Characteristics: Soft texture, oily, rich flavor
- Uses: Traditional Bengali dishes, steamed or fried
4. Indian Major Carp (Cirrhinus mrigala)
Commonly known as Mrigal, this is the third significant species among Indian major carps. It is a bottom-feeder, making it vital for composite fish farming.
- Type: Freshwater fish
- Regions: West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh
- Characteristics: Fine-grained flesh, mild flavor
- Uses: Table fish, fish curry
5. Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Tilapia is a fast-growing freshwater fish that has gained popularity in recent years for its ease of cultivation and high adaptability. It is widely farmed due to its resistance to diseases and efficient feed utilization.
- Type: Freshwater fish
- Regions: Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra
- Characteristics: Mild taste, lean flesh, protein-rich
- Uses: Table fish, grilling, frying
6. Pangasius (Pangasius hypophthalmus)
Pangasius, commonly known as Basa, is a commercially important freshwater fish cultivated in aquaculture. It is popular for its fast growth and low cost of production.
- Type: Freshwater fish
- Regions: Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, Tamil Nadu
- Characteristics: White, boneless fillet, mild flavor
- Uses: Fillets, fish curry, frozen fish
7. Pearl Spot (Etroplus suratensis)
Pearl Spot, locally known as Karimeen, is a highly sought-after brackish water fish found in Kerala. It is a delicacy in South Indian cuisine due to its unique flavor.
- Type: Brackish water fish
- Regions: Kerala backwaters, coastal Andhra Pradesh
- Characteristics: Firm flesh, mildly sweet flavor
- Uses: Steamed fish, fried dishes, curries
8. Indian Mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta)
Indian Mackerel, locally called Bangda, is a popular marine fish with high commercial value. It is known for its nutritional benefits and affordability.
- Type: Marine fish
- Regions: Coastal areas of Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu
- Characteristics: Firm texture, oily, rich in omega-3
- Uses: Fried fish, curries, pickles
9. Sardine (Sardinella longiceps)
Sardines, locally known as Mathi or Pedvey, are small, oily fish widely consumed across India due to their affordability and high nutritional value.
- Type: Marine fish
- Regions: Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra
- Characteristics: Soft texture, strong flavor, omega-3 rich
- Uses: Frying, curries, pickling
10. Pomfret (Pampus argenteus)
Pomfret is one of the most popular high-value marine fish in India. Available in white, silver, and black varieties, Pomfret is loved for its delicate flavor and soft flesh.
- Type: Marine fish
- Regions: Gujarat, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Kerala
- Characteristics: White flesh, mildly sweet, boneless
- Uses: Grilling, frying, tandoori preparations
11. Bombay Duck (Harpadon nehereus)
Despite its name, Bombay Duck (locally called Bombil) is a type of lizardfish. It is a delicacy in coastal Maharashtra and is often dried and salted for preservation.
- Type: Marine fish
- Regions: Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal
- Characteristics: Soft flesh, delicate flavor
- Uses: Frying, drying, pickling
12. Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix)
Silver Carp is a popular freshwater fish variety grown in aquaculture for its fast growth and adaptability. It is widely cultivated in composite fish farming systems.
- Type: Freshwater fish
- Regions: West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana
- Characteristics: Firm flesh, low fat
- Uses: Table fish, curries
In conclusion, India’s vast aquatic resources make it a hub for both freshwater and marine fisheries. From the prized Hilsa to the affordable Rohu and Sardines, each fish variety caters to different tastes, preferences, and market demands. With a growing focus on sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, India continues to leverage its rich aquatic biodiversity to meet domestic and global needs.
FAQs
Q1: Which is the most popular freshwater fish in India?
A: Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal are the most popular freshwater fish in India, widely used for table consumption and aquaculture.
Q2: What is the most popular marine fish in India?
A: Indian Mackerel (Bangda) and Pomfret are the most popular marine fish consumed across India.
Q3: Which fish is considered the “King of Fish” in India?
A: Hilsa (Ilish) is referred to as the “King of Fish” due to its rich taste and cultural significance.
Q4: Which fish is best for health-conscious consumers?
A: Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids like Sardines, Indian Mackerel, and Pomfret are excellent for health-conscious individuals.
Q5: What is the most common fish for aquaculture in India?
A: Rohu, Catla, Tilapia, and Pangasius are widely cultivated for aquaculture due to their fast growth and profitability.
