Pangasiid Catfish Pangasius hypophthalmus Farming in Bangladesh: a Rural Survey in the Mymensingh Region

The status of recently expanded exotic pangasiid catfish Pangasius hypophthalmus, Pangasiidae farming in rural Bangladesh has been studied for finding research needs, through knowing the culture methods, associated activities and problems, to make the farming sustainable. Data were collected using participatory rural appraisal (PRA) tools in nine villages in three upazilas (sub-district) of Mymensingh district. The farmers have not got any formal training and have developed their knowledge on farming the fish through practice over years and sharing of knowledge among fellow farmers. Linked industries, e.g. hatcheries, nurseries, feed mills, trading of feed and fish etc. have developed that created employment opportunities. Most of the farmers produce two crops a year. About 90% of the farmers were found to practice mono culture of pangasiid catfish at high stocking density. The feeding rates started from 10-15% of the body weight per day at fingerling stage that reduced to 4-6% with growth. The average yield was found to be 25 tonslha/year. The livelihood of the farmers has been improved through farming the fish. Women and children were rarely engaged in the activities. The identified major problems in farming the fish were water quality deterioration, high feed costs and declining consumer demand and market price.