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Species in News: Pearl Spot Fish
Context:
The Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos) is set to launch a genome editing initiative aimed at transforming pearl spot aquaculture, similar to the impact Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT) had years ago.
This pioneering effort aims to enhance growth rates and breeding efficiency, potentially revolutionising the state’s aquaculture industry.
About Pearl Spot Fish
- Scientific Name: Etroplus suratensis; commonly known as “Karimeen” in Kerala.
- It is a commercially important fish in India. It is prized for its flavour and fetches a high price in the market.
- IUCN status: It is listed as Least Concern.
- Native Species: Endemic to peninsular India and Sri Lanka, it is widely found in the Kerala backwaters, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
- State fish of Kerala: Declared in the year 2010. They are traditionally grown in paddy fields (Pokkali fields) in Kerala.
- Euryhaline fish: It can thrive in brackish waters and live in both fresh and saline waters.
- An oval-shaped body with a short snout, it is typically grey-green in colour with dark bars and a distinctive spot at the base of the pectoral fin.
- It is a low-fat, high-protein food rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which keep the heart and brain healthy. It is also rich in Vitamin D and riboflavin, as well as minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.
- The average length reaches up to 20 cm.
- Diet: This omnivorous detritus feeder eats Plankton, Small worms, Prawns, and Algae (especially periphyton dominated by spirogyra).
- Pearl spots can be raised in monoculture or polyculture with other fish or prawns.
- Breeding behaviour involves pairing, courtship, chasing, nest-making and parental care.
Disease Management:
It is susceptible to diseases caused by fluctuations in water quality. Bacteria like Pseudomonas, Alcaligenes, and Vibrio cause common diseases.
