Sustainable Fish Farming Practices in India: Pathway to Blue Growth Quiz

Explore essential concepts behind eco-friendly fishery management and sustainable aquaculture methods widely adopted in India. Learn about practical strategies that promote environmental health, improve fish yields, and support rural livelihoods.

1. Selection of Fish Species

   Which fish species is commonly considered ideal for sustainable pond culture in India due to its fast growth rate and compatibility with polyculture systems?

   1. Starfish
   2. Shark
   3. Rohu
   4. Tilapia

   Explanation: Rohu is well-suited for sustainable fish farming in India due to its adaptability and efficiency in polyculture with other carp species. Tilapia, while fast-growing, may not always be preferred due to ecological concerns. Shark and starfish are not commonly farmed in Indian inland pond systems and are unsuitable for freshwater culture.

2. Integrated Fish Farming

   In an integrated fish farming approach, how are agricultural by-products typically utilized within pond ecosystems?

   1. To remove all nutrients
   2. To lower pond pH
   3. As direct feed for fish
   4. For ornamental decoration

   Explanation: Agricultural by-products such as rice bran and oil cakes can be used directly as supplementary feed for fish, enhancing sustainability by recycling farm waste. Lowering pond pH is not a primary role, ornamental decoration does not promote sustainability, and removing all nutrients from ponds would harm fish productivity.

3. Water Quality Management

   Maintaining which of the following water parameters is most important for healthy fish growth in sustainable aquaculture?

   1. Dissolved oxygen
   2. Salinity for freshwater ponds
   3. Radioactivity
   4. Mercury levels

   Explanation: Dissolved oxygen is crucial for fish survival and growth; low levels can lead to stress or mortality. Mercury and radioactivity should ideally be absent, not maintained. Salinity is relevant for brackish or marine systems, not for typical freshwater pond farming in India.

4. Disease Control Practices

   Which sustainable practice is recommended to minimize disease outbreaks in Indian fish farms?

   1. Allowing untreated sewage inflow
   2. Overstocking ponds
   3. Excessive antibiotic use
   4. Regular pond sanitation

   Explanation: Regular pond sanitation removes waste and helps prevent disease outbreaks naturally. Overstocking and allowing sewage inflow increase disease risk, while excessive antibiotic use can cause resistance and environmental issues, making them less sustainable.

5. Economic and Environmental Benefits

   What is a key socio-economic benefit of adopting sustainable fish farming practices in rural India?

   1. Complete automation of all processes
   2. Guaranteed export quality every season
   3. Increased rural employment opportunities
   4. Total elimination of farm expenses

   Explanation: Sustainable practices can create steady rural jobs by supporting local input use and integrated activities. Complete automation is expensive and rare in rural India, eliminating all expenses is unrealistic, and while export is possible, it cannot be guaranteed every season due to various factors.