Sustainable fingerling production technique of endangered Labeo calbasu (Hamilton, 1822) based on different protein levels in ponds

Labeo calbasu (Hamilton, 1822) (L. calbasu)is a freshwater fish species belonging to the family Cyprinidae under the order Cypriniformes. It is the most important carp species next to the three Indian major carps i.e. Labeo rohita, Catla catla and Cirrhinus mrigala[1]. It is a popular food fish having good taste, less intramuscular bones and high protein content; it is also admired as a good sport fish[2,3]. The L. calbasu have long been the main aquaculture item in south Asian countries including Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan[4]. This fish has enormous aquaculture potential and it could be easily grown in ponds. L. calbasu mainly inhabits freshwater and brackish water ecosystems including rivers, ponds, lakes, streams, beels, haors,canals etc.[5]. Its favorite habitat is the deep pools of rivers, where it largely remains localized during the winter and summer months, and ascend to adjacent shallower region of the river for breeding during monsoon months[1]. Food items that they fed include plants, diatoms, filamentous and blue-green algae [6,7]. The L. calbasu also choice supplementary feed and the administration of supplementary feed is mandatory for maximum growth of fry, fingerlings and adult. Artificial feed not only fulfills the nutrient deficiencies but also helps to exploit the maximum potential of manures added into the pond[8]. In addition, use ARTICLE INFO ABSTRACT