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Clarias batrachus, the medicinal fish: An excellent c&idate for aquaculture & employment generation

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Surajit Debnath at Women's Polytechnic , Govt. of Tripura
Surajit Debnath
  • Women's Polytechnic , Govt. of Tripura
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Traditional wisdom a propos the nutritional benefits of Indian catfish Clarias batrachus is the domino effect into its high consumer demand (global market value ≈800000 USD). Analytical studies also indicated towards easily digestible protein, mineral & adequate good cholesterol (HDL concentration >150 mg/dl, HDL > 60% of Total Cholesterol) content of the fish species. The species is well adapted in virtually all Indian aquatic ecosystems, though production remains low. This paper reviews recent developments in catfish physiology with respect to Clarias batrachus and its aquaculture significance.
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Clarias batrachus, the medicinal fish: An excellent c&idate for
aquaculture & employment generation.
Surajit Debnath
Lecturer, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Women’s Polytechnic, Govt. of Tripura Hapania,
P.O: Amtali, Tripura (W). PIN: 799130, India
Abstract. Traditional wisdom a propos the nutritional benefits of Indian catfish Clarias batrachus is the
domino effect into its high consumer demand (global market value ≈800000 USD). Analytical studies also
indicated towards easily digestible protein, mineral & adequate good cholesterol (HDL concentration >150
mg/dl, HDL > 60% of Total Cholesterol) content of the fish species. The species is well adapted in virtually all
Indian aquatic ecosystems, though production remains low. This paper reviews recent developments in catfish
physiology with respect to Clarias batrachus and its aquaculture significance.
Keywords: Clarias batrachus, Indian catfish, Fish physiology, Nutritional benefits, High Density
Lipoprotein, Aquaculture.
1. Introduction
Candidates of the genus Clarias has been traveled to many continents, adapting itself successfully &
found throughout Asia & Africa. Clarias batrachus in some parts of India, particularly in West Bengal &
Tripura is considered as a medicinal fish & traditionally remained a strike among the pregnant & lactating
mothers, the elderly & children.Many a times consumption of “Magur” (Local name of C.batrachus) is
prescribed prophylactically to the anemic & malnourished individuals as well as for the convalescent of the
patients due to the nutritional superiority. Intensive C.batrachus culture in several Indian states as in rural
Bengal & Tripura have much potential towards livelihood development, employment generation & ensureing
nutritional enrichment in the regular diet among of the people.
This rough & tough species has been studied extensively by many workers in terms of physiology,
biochemistry, toxicology, host parasite interaction, pathology, culture characters as well as its population
genetics. This paper illustrates the significant content of serum HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) and reviews
the major studies carried out by the physiologists, biochemists & aquaculturists throughout the world that
contributed immensely in our understanding the life & biology of Clarias batrachus.
2. Why intensive culture of Clarias batrachus?
Successful aquaculture of this species may bring about socioeconomic sustainability of the rural people.
Intensive C.batrachus culture will gain popularity mainly because the species require no special treatment
with respect to the conditioning and the growth factors unlike many other aquaculture species.
A comparatively simple culture characteristic with efficient food conversion (Ali & Jauncey 2005) &
excellent nutritional profile (Rui et al 2007) makes Clarias very suitable for commercial intensive culture. A
common perception of easily digestible high grade protein, high concentration of iron & beneficial lipid
content may be instrumental towards its high acceptance as medicinal fish. A yearlong study on the blood
Corresponding author. Tel.: + 919402335151; fax: + 91-381-2376814
E-mail address: surajit03@yahoo.co.in
32
2011 International Conference on Asia Agriculture and Animal
IPCBEE vol.13 (2011) © (2011)IACSIT Press, Singapoore
plasma lipid of C.batrachus in a population (logW= - 0.8628+2.097 logL, Debnath 2008) revealed that the
HDL content ranges from 150 mg/dl – 180 mg/dl which is more than 60% of total cholesterol (Fig 1).
Figure 1: Lipid Fraction in the blood plasma of C batrachus.
According to the data released by the Fisheries & Aquaculture department, Food & Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations, C.batrachus has been propagated throughout the Asia from Thailand &
Indonesia (Java). The species has been introduced to as far as Europe (United Kingdom), USA & Australia
(Papua New Guinea) from various pockets of South Asia & South East Asia. FAO data also divulge the
regular growth in the global production, processing & subsequent earning from different catfish varieties
(global market value ≈800000 USD) (Fig 2).
Figure 2: Global market value of Catfish produced worldwide (FAO, 2010).
3. Recent advances in physiology & aquaculture of Clarias batrachus
3.1 Reproductive and developmental physiology of Clarias batrachus
Our knowledge & understanding of the reproductive physiology, breeding & culture of fishes has been
constantly upgrading because the dynamics of nature sometimes bring about unique combinations of factors,
that generates diversification of experimental conditions. Aquaculture is a very efficient system for
conversion of low grade raw materials into high grade protein via poikilotherms, accordingly study of
breeding biology & culture practices in fishes are of fundamental importance both for economics and
ecology as well.
The mechanisms of endocrine regulatory pathways involving reproductive physiology (Mazumdar et al
2007) & culture of C.batrachus in wild or controlled environment (Ghosh 2004) are well studied. Induced
breeding in order to develop cost-effective & protractable practices is imperative in aquaculture (Muir 2005).
In search of an effective & economical inducer of spawning & related changes, arificial spermiation,
ovulation and maturation of gamates in C.batrachus a number of modulators & methods (Raghuveer &
Senthilkumaran 2009, Sahoo et al 2007) have been scanned.
Observations & studies of post spawning, post fertilization events & developments (Nath & Maitra 2001)
are equally significant for successful outcome. C.batrachus is much popular in Asia as a model to study
various aspects of its physiology,organ function as well as molecular biology since it has its origin in this
continent.Recent studies on the developmental biology in the species describes nural and sense organ
(Gaikwad et al 2009) generation. Majumdar et al (1999) studied the phosphorus containing metabolites of
the developing embryos of C batrachus (L.) by NMR. FAO has published several reports of culture &
production of C.batrachus.Traditional knowledge of culture practices integrated with our new findings on
the intricacies of various physiological mechanisms will enable sustainable development in the yield and
therefore can ensure good-food availability in the future.
3.2. Environmental adaptation in toxicity & stress response of Clarias batrachus
C.batrachus has exceptionally well tolerance level in varied environment that suggests an advantageous
evolutionary trait. Toxicity & stress studies can through light on the adaptation strategy of a species
according to the vibrant changes of the environment and the changed character of the wild habitat,much of
33
which is altered by now due to increasing human intervention & exploitation.Observations by Manna et al
(2008) worth mentioning in this regard where a negative confounding effect in the evaluation of toxicity has
been reported in fishes.Among the other observations conducted ; Naqvi et al(1993) evaluated the severe
hematotoxic effect of the commonly used farm fertilizer diammonium-phosphate compared to urea in
C.batrachus. Effect of pollutants as pesticides, drugs, radionucleids (Joy & Sathyanesan 1981)& heavy
metals(Panigrahi et al 1990) on factors like hematological indices, histopathological characters(Ray etal
1990)injuring the liver (Goel & Agrawal 1981) , brain (Kirubagaran&Joy1990), kidneys (Kirubagaran & Joy
1988) are well acknowledged in C.batrachus.Organ & system specific effects as on neural system (Jyothi &
Narayan 2004),immune system(Datta etal 2009),endocrine level(Kirubagaran & Joy 1991),etc and general
metabolism (Begum & Vijayaraghavan 1995) are also well documented in C.batrachus.
Latest studies on oxidative stress (Bhattacharya & Bhattacharya 2007), DNA damage & apoptosis (Datta
et al 2007), gonadal development (Singh & Joy 2000), reproductive cycles, etc influenced by allogens are
indicating towards the immediate need to preach & practice habitat protection and implement stringent
regulation against tampering with the environment.
3.3. Immune response & Host parasite interaction in Clarias batrachus
Studies on the immune response of C.batrachus by experimental or wild infection as well as by
microbial toxins enable our understanding of host parasite interaction,disease resistance mechanism and risk
factors of culture practices.Effects on a host with a pathogen load may be useful to propose preventive
protocols & vulnerability assessment.Dash et al (2003) studied immune system in the species.Observations
relating to infection load with that of the environmental parameters can through light on the modification on
cultural aspects to maintain yield.Immunological response to foreign substances & dietary supplements
(Kumari & Sahoo 2005)will help to evaluate therapeutic possibilities.Observation of molecular (Joshi
1982)& organ specific responses (Ruhela et al 2008) to pathogens (Majumdar et al 2007) & parasites
(Sharma & Saxena 2001)will help to standardize symptomatic diagnosis.Swain et al(2004)reported the
purification & characterization of immunoglobulins from C.batrachus. Immunological response to microbial
toxins (Majumdar et al 2007) may be extended for the appraisal of perspective immunization protocols.
3.4. Rythmicity & Behavior in Clarias batrachus
Biological rhythms ensure the balance of numerous fundamental processes sustained in nature. Seasonal
changes influence physiology of animals in terms of cellular (Tripathi et al 2005)& molecular (Sarkar &
Subhedar 2001)cascades in various ways. Selections of mate, breeding ground, endocrine secretion
(Mazumdar et al 2007)etc follow an inherent natural instinct & rhythm.The timeliness of sexual maturation
& gravidity ensures that environment is conducive for the newcomers & guarantees survival.Several
workers(Singh & Lal 2008) observed seasonal influence on reproductive physiology of C batrachus.
Responses to the environmental factors (Srivastava 2003)like photoperiod, temperature, water current etc &
internal physiological parameters (Sahu&Shedpure 2006)are also studied in C.batrachus.These studies has
enriched our knowledge on the factors influencing rhythmcity & related changes in C.batrachus. Modulator
substances thus can be evaluated with their beneficial response actions. Behavioral responses as frequency
and aggression for feeding (Siddiqui 1975) & mating also follow some rhythms & have precise adaptive
advantages.
4. Recent studies on Population Genetics & diversity of Clarias batrachus
In order to find ways for stock improvement & conservation for any fish species genetic makeup & its
variations in terms of whole genome or a loci (Insulin Like Growth Factor–I, Debnath 2010;Growth
hormone, Debnath 2009) can disclose crucial attributes.Khedkar et al (2009) studied genetic similarity &
diversity of catfish C.batrachus populations of three Indian riverine system using randomly amplified
polymorphic DNA-polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR) & reported that the populations lack
diversity.This may be due to rearing in the same environmental conditions,migration or by inbreeding during
several generations.In nearer future, the lack in genetic diversity can lead to depression in growth & disease
resistance.Islam et al(2007) described the genetic formation of different populations of C.batrachus in
Bangladesh & mentioned the potentialities for improving the species through selective breeding.Their study
34
revealed a recent bottleneck in some wild populations of this species that necessitates habitat protection to
increase the population size & lower the vulnerability of C.batrachus in the future.To evaluate diversity
Padhi et al(1998)characterized the MboI satellites in C.batrachus.Phylogenetic inference from the correlation
of some microsatellite DNA segments for indirect assessment of genetic diversity in C.batrachus has also
been described (Debnath & Gupta 2009).In a study Ahmad & Hasnain (2006) reported correlation between
biochemical properties & adaptive diversity of skeletal muscle myofibrils & myosin of some air-breathing
teleosts including C.batrachus.
5. Conclusion
Fisheries & aquaculture is gaining additional emphasis due to our concern in sustainability, greener
solutions, conservation & food security.Detail studies on physiology, genetics & general biology are
therefore in a fish species very much relevant in order to put forward conservation protocols and to propose
newer & improved culture practices.Establishment of Clarias batrachus in several continents & its
popularity as a freshwater culturable fish species among consumers made the species suitable for meticulous
reviews with respect to various parameters.According to FAO estimates the demand for catfishes throughout
the world is increasing & Clarias batrachus with its several beneficial aspects remain as a hit among the
Asians in particular. Besides in order to protect the genetic resources of this species from unwanted
hybridization, which the species is very much vulnerable, the fish geneticists & the government bodies
should work together. Habitat protection & sustainable consumption of this excellent fish species is the call
of the day.
Intensive aquaculture of C.batrachus in the rural water bodies with very little infrastructure development
may bring-about socioeconomic development in many parts of Bengal & Northeast India. Coordination
between government bodies with respect to skill up gradation of the workers, market regulation etc together
with the scientific community ensuring timely delivery of better quality seed stock will generate success
stories in intensive Clarias batrachus culture. Since the species is a part of the natural fauna in this region
therefore culture practices will be much easier to follow & therefore much more viable in economic point of
view. Government bodies & organizations should come forward for training of the rural unemployed youth
& women for human resource development & dexterity enhancement related to technical know-how of
culture & disease management. Regional rural banks & agro finance bodies may be approached for capital
requirement & the local governance of Panchayats may forward financial help to the rural entrepreneurs.
6. Acknowledgement
I owe a favor to the Principal,Women’s Polytechnic, Hapania, Government of Tripura for the
concouragement to participate in the esttemed conference.I am also gratefully acknowledge‘Department of
Biotechnology’, Government of India for providing me financial assistance to attend ICAAA , 2011.
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... It is mostly found in freshwater and brackish water rivers, lakes, ponds, streams, swamps, ditches, rice paddies, and reservoirs (Froese & Pauly, 2023;Allen, 2011). Successful aquaculture of this species provides socio-economic sustainability for rural communities (Debnath, 2011). Its economic importance stems from its attractiveness, taste, food conversion efficiency, ruggedness, and consumer popularity (Hossain et al., 2006;Debnath, 2011). ...
... Successful aquaculture of this species provides socio-economic sustainability for rural communities (Debnath, 2011). Its economic importance stems from its attractiveness, taste, food conversion efficiency, ruggedness, and consumer popularity (Hossain et al., 2006;Debnath, 2011). This fish is also commonly referred to as Asian catfish and is considered an integral part of commercial fisheries, aquaculture, and home aquariums, particularly in Asia, where it is widely consumed. ...
Length-weight relationship, condition factor dynamics, and feeding preference of Clarias batrachus (Linnaeus, 1758) from the rivers of Bataan
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There is a paucity of information on Philippine catfish (Clarias batrachus) thriving in fishery areas in Bataan, Luzon Island, and the Philippines. The study examined the length-weight relationship (W = aL b), condition factor, and stomach content of C. batrachus collected from two major river systems in Bataan (Orani and Bagac Rivers), Philippines. A total of 60 fish specimens (12.4-25.5 cm) were collected using a 12-v electrofishing gear and fishing net. Although the specimens from Orani were significantly larger than those from Bagac, the latter exhibited an isometric growth rate (b = 3). Orani population displayed a negative allometric growth (b < 3). Female and male samples, regardless of site variability, showed a statistically isometric growth rate (b = 3). The condition factor of C. batrachus was K = 1.0, irrespective of site and sex variation, signifying that the populations are in good condition. Five food items were detected in Bagac, with the Gobiidae family emerging as the predominant prey items based on number (48.89%), frequency of occurrence (100%), and weight (72.83 %). Orani recorded three food items, primarily macroinvertebrates (Chironomidae), accounting for 75 %N, 86.67 %O, and a frequency of 91.19%. The Index of Preponderance and Index of Relative Importance recognized Gobiidae and Chironomidae as the two most important food items in Bagac and Orani, respectively. The baseline dataset generated from this study is hoped to provide insights into the current population status of this important fishery resource for improved riverine conservation management.
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... In some parts of India, specifically in West Bengal Clarias batrachus is locally known as 'magur'. Magur is considered as a medicinal fish having recuperative value in lactating mothers, children, malnourished individuals (Debnath, 2011). C. batrachus is a promising aquaculture claimant due to its hardiness, efficient feed conversion, adequate growth, excellent nutritional profile and high marketable price (Argungu et al. 2013). ...
Responses of probiotics-encapsulated live feed on growth, survival and digestive enzymes of adult Clarias batrachus when exposed to pathogenic bacteria
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  • Jul 2021
A 30day experiment was conducted to determine the effects of Bacillus cereus KR809412 encapsulated live feed (chironomid larvae) on growth, survival and digestive enzyme activities in adult magur Clarias batrachus when exposed to pathogenic Aeromonas hydrophila (MTCC 1739). Experimental fish were distributed in three groups (control, T1 and T2). Control was served with non-bioencapsulated (NBE) and non-inoculated (NIC) live feed (chironomid larvae) throughout the experimental period. In the feeding trial groups; T1 was provided with live feed which was bioencapsulated with B. cereus (BEP) and T2 was provided with live feed that was inoculated with the pathogenic strain (PIC) for first fifteen days of the experiment. During second fifteen days of the 30-day experiment; PIC live feed was served to T1 and BEP live feed to T2 @1% of body weight day-1. Homogenization of the fore gut and hind gut regions and centrifugation were carried out for digestive enzyme assay. Calculation of growth was made as specific growth rate (SGR, % day–1). Data of quantitative enzyme activity, growth and survival rate were analysed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and a post hoc analysis (Turkey HSD). Consequences observed as significantly higher (P<0.05) specific growth rate (SGR, %d-1) and survivability in T1 that was fed with BEP live feed during first 15 days of the 30-day experiment. On the other hand, during second 15 days it was noticed that despite of serving PIC live feed to T1 their overall growth, well-being was not so hampered. Group T2 showed the lowest specific growth rate (SGR, %d-1) and survivability when provided with PIC live feed for the first 15 days. Adverse effect on overall health status of T1 and T2 was not observed when fed with BEP live feed and PIC live feed alternatively in 15 days interval. Significantly higher (P<0.05) activities of digestive enzymes noticed in group T1 as compared to the control group during first 15 days of the 30-day experimental period. Besides, group T2 resulted in diminished digestive enzyme activities in comparison to control group and T1 during the first phase of the feeding trial. However, substitution of exposure of bacterial strains during second 15 days in both T1 and T2 did not explain any significant difference (P<0.05) in the actions of digestive enzymes in comparison to their actions during the first 15 days.
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... Thịt cá chứa 16,5% protein, 11,9% lipit, 20 mg% Ca, 21 mg% P, 1 mg% Fe, 0,1 mg% vitamin B1, 0,04 mg% B2, 1,4 mg% PP và cung cấp 178 calo trong 100g thịt [3]. Cá trê đen cũng là loài cá nước ngọt rất hấp dẫn vì thịt cá có mùi vị thơm ngon, da cứng, chắc, có giá trị về mặt y học và được người tiêu dùng vô cùng ưa chuộng [4,5]. Bản chất cá trê đen cứng rắn và chịu được các điều kiện bất lợi của môi trường đặc biệt trong môi trường có nồng độ oxy trong nước thấp, đó là điều kiện tốt để nuôi thâm canh với tỷ lệ sản xuất cao [6]. ...
ẢNH HƯỞNG CỦA SINH KHỐI BIO-FLOC DẠNG ƯỚT VÀ KHÔ ĐẾN CHẤT LƯỢNG NƯỚC, TĂNG TRƯỞNG, HUYẾT HỌC VÀ SINH HÓA MÁU CỦA CÁ TRÊ ĐEN (Clarias fuscus)
Article
Full-text available
  • Jun 2024
Bio-floc (BFT) là khối kết dính của các loại vi khuẩn, tảo, động vật nguyên sinh, mảnh vỡ phân tử hữu cơ và sinh vật khác. .. Hạt floc rất giàu protein, lipit, vitamin và khoáng chất. Cá trê đen (Clarias fuscus) là loài cá có giá trị kinh tế và có thể sử dụng làm thuốc. Thịt cá có vị ngọt, thơm, không độc, có tác dụng bổ huyết, giảm đau, ích khí… Tác động của sinh khối BFT ướt và khô đối với cá trê đen đã được đánh giá trong nghiên cứu này. BFT được sản xuất trong hai bể tròn composit 1000L có bổ sung mật đường hàng ngày để điều chỉnh tỷ lệ C: N trong nước ở mức 15: 1. Sau khi thu nhận, BFT được bổ sung vào bể nuôi cá ở dạng ướt và khô. Cá trê đen được nuôi kết hợp giữa chế độ ăn nhân tạo và sinh khối BFT ướt hoặc khô, trong 8 tuần. Khi nguồn thức ăn nhân tạo giảm dần (từ 100% đến 50%) thì lượng BFT tăng theo tỷ lệ tương ứng (7 nghiệm thức). Kết quả, nồng độ nitrat, TSS, TAN… trong nước giảm mạnh ở bể nhận BFT ướt. SGR, FCR, PER, huyết học, sinh hóa máu cá ở bể nhận BFT khô kém hơn so với bể ướt. Như vậy, sử dụng sinh khối BFT ướt (50%) bổ sung vào thức ăn đã mang lại hiệu quả tích cực trong nuôi cá trê đen.
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... Among these Clarias batrachus is an important fish valued for its nutritional benefits [2] . It is prescribed for anemic and malnutrition people for convalescence [3] . It is commonly known as the walking catfish or Mangur, found in shallow freshwater s located in South and Southeast Asia. ...
Food and Feeding habits of walking catfish, Clarias batrachus and other commercial fish: A review
Article
Full-text available
  • Sep 2023
The walking catfish, Clarias batrachus, is a highly adaptable and euryhaline freshwater species known for its unique locomotion capabilities and remarkable ability to survive in diverse aquatic environments. It is an opportunistic feeder with a broad dietary spectrum, exhibiting both carnivorous and omnivorous tendencies. The main objective of this review is to understand the food and feeding habits of commercially important fishes and comparing different feeding methodologies with special significance on fish Clarias batrachus. Feeding behavior and strategies employed by fishes are influenced by various factors, including water temperature, dissolved oxygen levels and prey abundance. The study of fish food and feeding habits has been an ongoing area of research that has provided valuable insights into the ecological dynamics of aquatic ecosystems. Recent studies have utilized advanced techniques such as gut content analysis, stomach content analysis, Stable isotope analysis, Direct observation, acoustic telemetry, feeding trials, to unravel the intricacies of fish diets and feeding preferences. These investigations have revealed the importance of studying food and feeding habits of different fishes to understand the trophic interactions, prey availability, and environmental factors that play vital role in aquatic ecosystem. Understanding the food and feeding habits of fishes is vital for effective management and conservation efforts. In conclusion, the study of fish food and feeding habits has a rich historical background and continues to evolve with recent advancements and interdisciplinary approaches.
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... In some parts of India, specifically in West Bengal Clarias batrachus is locally known as 'magur'. Magur is considered as a medicinal fish having recuperative value in lactating mothers, children, malnourished individuals (Debnath, 2011). C. batrachus is a promising aquaculture claimant due to its hardiness, efficient feed conversion, adequate growth, excellent nutritional profile and high marketable price (Argungu et al. 2013). ...
Effects of Probiotics Encapsulated Live feed on Growth, Survival and Digestive enzymes of Adult Clarias batrachus when Exposed to pathogenic Bacteria.
Chapter
Full-text available
  • May 2021
A 30day experiment was conducted to determine the effects of Bacillus cereus KR809412 encapsulated live feed (chironomid larvae) on growth, survival and digestive enzyme activities in adult magur Clarias batrachus when exposed to pathogenic Aeromonas hydrophila. Experimental fish were distributed in three groups (control, T1 and T2). Control was served with non-bioencapsulated (NBE) and non-inoculated (NIC) live feed (chironomid larvae) throughout the experimental period. Group T1 was provided with bioencapsulated (B. cereus) (BEP) live feed and group T2 with pathogen (A. hydrophila) inoculated (PIC) live feed for first fifteen days of the experiment. During second fifteen days of the experiment T1 was served with PIC live feed and T2 with BEP live feed, (@1% of body weight day -1 ). The fore gut and hind gut regions were homogenised and centrifuged for digestive enzyme assay. Growth was calculated as specific growth rate (SGR, % day –1 ). Quantitative enzyme activity data, growth and survival rate were analysed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and a post hoc analysis (Turkey HSD). Group T1 fed with BEP live feed for first 15 days showed significantly higher (P<0.05) specific growth rate (SGR, %d -1 ) and survivability. After 15 days interval, T1 was served with PIC live feed, their overall growth, well-being was not so hampered. Group T2 that was provided with PIC live feed for first 15 days resulted in the lowest specific growth rate (SGR, %d -1 ) and survivability. Alternative feeding with BEP live feed and PIC live feed in 15 days interval to group T1 and T2 did not result in adverse effect on their overall health status. During first 15 days of the experiment, digestive enzyme activities were significantly higher (P<0.05) in group T1 as compared to the control group, and T2 whereas, reduced digestive enzyme activities in comparison to control group and T1 were observed during the first phase of the feeding trial. However, alteration of exposure of bacterial strains during last 15 days in both groups did not cause any significant difference (P<0.05) in the activities of digestive enzymes when compared to their activities during first 15 days.
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... Many a times consumption of "Magur" (Local name of Clarius batrachus) is prescribed prophylactically to the anemic & malnourished individuals as well as for the convalescent of the patients due to the nutritional superiority. Intensive Clarius batrachus culture in several Indian states as in rural Bengal & Tripura have much potential towards livelihood development, employment generation & ensuring nutritional enrichment in the regular diet among of the people [10] . Heteropneustes fossilis is an important tropical food fish. ...
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... In some state like Tripura, Nagaland, West Bengal particularly, this fish is considered as medicinal fish and traditionally remained a strike among the pregnant and lacting mothers, the elderly and children. Many times consumption of "Magur" (Local name of Clarias batrachus) is prescribed prophylactically to the anemic and malnourished individual as well as to the convalescent of the patients due to the nutritional superiority [44]. Thus Clarias batrachus can be a great model to consider reactions to various environmental contaminants. ...
Toxic Effects of Cadmium on Clarias batrachus -A Review
Article
Full-text available
  • Jun 2022
Industrial processes are responsible for discharging toxic heavy metals to the terrestrial environment which are getting biomagnified at higher trophic levels, contaminating the entire food chain. Cadmium (Cd) is highly toxic beyond its permissible limits of exposure and long introduction of cadmium results wide assortment has intense and incessant impacts on oceanic animal as well as terrestrial animals including human beings and environment. The genotoxicant Cadmium damaged the hereditary data inside a cell resulting mutations, ultimately may cause cancer. The alteration can have direct or indirect impacts on the DNA results DNA damage which cause mutations. The genotoxic substances cause damage to the hereditary material within the cells through interactions with the DNA sequence and structure. The changes due to the toxic effect of Cd in morphology, physiology, behavioral biology, hematology, biochemical , genotoxicity, histopathology etc. of Clarias batrachus fish have been reported. If the fishes were affected by heavy metal cadmium, then it also affected animals, humans by biomagnifications which may give rise new diseases and disorders in near future.
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... To the authors' knowledge, very few investigations were conducted to apprehend beneficial role, mode of association and enzyme-producing ability of the autochthonous gut bacteria in catfishes , Banerjee et al. 2016. Amongst the diverse catfish species, Clarias batrachus is economically important for its medicinal and curative attributes (Debnath 2011). The GI tract of the catfish larvae is shorter and relatively underdeveloped compared to that of the adults. ...
Evaluation of extracellular enzyme-producing autochthonous gut bacteria in walking catfish, Clarias batrachus (L.)
Article
  • Apr 2016
The present study was carried out to screen autochthonous gut bacteria in freshwater air breathing walking catfish, Clarias batrachus Linnaeus. Altogether, 100 extracellular enzyme-producing bacteria were isolated from the foregut (FG) and hindgut (HG) regions. Data were presented as log viable counts g-1 gut (LVC). The occurrence of heterotrophic bacterial population was higher in the FG region (LVC = 8.25) than the HG (LVC= 7.3). Similarly, proteolytic, amylolytic and lipolytic bacteria in FG outnumbered (LVC=7.25, 6.77 and 5.23 respectively) the HG (LVC=6.38, 5.58 and 4.04 respectively). However, occurrence of cellulolytic bacteria in both, FG and HG was less (LVC=2.1 and 1.34 respectively) in comparison to the other extracellular enzyme-producing bacteria. Out of the 100 bacterial isolates, 22 isolates were primarily selected through qualitative assay of extracellular enzyme activities. Among them, 3 promising isolates were chosen as potent extracellular enzyme producers on the basis of cumulative scores (≥11) of the qualitative assay and quantitative enzyme assay. Maximum protease activity was revealed by the strain FG10 (201±2.40U), while FG43 exhibited maximum amylase (208.3±10.8U) and lipase (4.73±0.05U) activities. Among the strains isolated from the HG, the highest protease (188.3±1.2U), amylase (97.6±0.46U) and lipase (3.7±0.11U) activities were recorded with the strain HG01.
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Evaluation of the Binding Affinity of a Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Analogue (GnRH-a) Buserelin through In silico and In vivo Testing in Clarias magur
Article
  • Apr 2022
Aim To evaluate the binding affinity and biological potency of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa) Buserelin (C60H86N16O13) based on in silico and in vivo testing for induced breeding in Clarias magur. Background Many attempts have been made to induce C. magur, but encouraging results have not yet been achieved. Hence, it is the need of the hour to find out more potent analogues or other bio-molecules for induced breeding in C. magur to facilitate sustainable aquaculture. Objective To determine the binding affinity of C. magur GnRH receptor through in silico and to validate it for induced breeding of C. magur. Methods Buserelin (C60H86N16O13) was selected as the potential GnRHa after screening several peptides for their binding energy with the C. magur GnRH receptor. The induced breeding trial was set up at ICAR-CIFE Powarkheda Centre, M.P. India, and Buserelin was administered in different doses to the brooders along with the dopamine inhibitor domperidone. The standard treatment with the commercial salmon GnRH (sGnRH) analogue Ovaprim® (Syndel, USA) was used as the control. Results The 3-D structure of C. magur GnRH receptor was generated using MODELLER software. Molecular docking studies revealed the binding preference of the receptor as chicken (c) Gn- RH-II > Buserelin > sGnRH > catfish (cf) GnRH > human (m) GnRH. Though Buserelin showed better binding affinity compared to sGnRH, induced breeding experiments with magur showed similar performance of the ligands at the equivalent dose of 20 μg/kg B.W., but the spontaneous release of milt from the males was not observed in both cases. Significantly better reproductive parameters were recorded with Buserelin at the dose of 30 μg/kg B.W. Conclusion The study revealed that that the GnRHa Buserelin can be used as an effective inducing agent for breeding in C. magur.
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Characterization of MboI satellites in Cirrhina mrigala and Clarias batrachus (Pisces)
Article
Full-text available
We have cloned and characterized two highly reiterated, tandemly repeated, and A+T rich MboI DNA fragments, one in Cirrhina mrigala (Cyprinidae), with a monomer size of 266 bp, and one in Clarias batrachus (Clariidae), with a monomer size of 227 bp. The MboI fragment in C. mrigala is species-specific and absent in other carps, such as Catla catla and Labeo rohita. The MboI fragment in C. batrachus was also present in two other catfishes tested, namely Clarias gariepinus and Heteropneustes fossilis. In C, mrigala x C. catla and C. mrigala x L. rohita hybrids, the C. mrigala specific MboI fragment is inherited uniparentally. In the reciprocal hybrids of C. batrachus x H. fossilis, the satellite ladder contains the bands of both parental species. The MboI satellite of carp may be useful in genetic introgression analysis and that of catfish in distinguishing between gynogenetic progeny and true hybrids.
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Clarias batrachus (Linn.1758) population is lacking genetic diversity in India
Article
Full-text available
  • May 2009
  • MOL BIOL REP
Genetic similarity and diversity of catfish Clarias batrachus (Linn.1758) populations collected from three regions of Indian riverine system were examined using randomly amplified polymorphic DNA-polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR). Out of 22 random primers tested, six primers produced 462 RAPD bands ranging from 105 to 128 polymorphic bands per primer in size between 100 and 1,200 bp. The polymorphic bands in these populations ranged from 26.5 to 30.5. Polymorphic bands within populations ranged from 25 to 35.7%. The degree of similarity within Hussainabad population varied from 0.125 to 0.842 based on average level of band sharing (BS) values. The level of band sharing values within the catfish populations were 0.26 +/- 0.021 for Banaras, 0.60 +/- 0.033 for Bhubaneshwar and 0.377 +/- 0.058 for Hussainabad respectively. The results from the present study indicate that there is great degree of genetic similarity between Bhubaneshwar and Hussainabad populations where as Banaras catfish population is distinct. It may appear that Bhubaneshwar and Hussainabad are geographically connected by rivers and most of the major catfish hatcheries are located in this region, therefore the individuals from these populations are get reared in the same environmental conditions, migration or by inbreeding during several generations may be possible. This may be the reason that catfish population is lacking genetic diversity in major riverine system of India. In nearer future, the lack in genetic diversity can lead to inbreeding which can be resulted in poor growth and disease susceptibility, Bhubaneshwar and Hussainabad catfish population may have this problem.
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Identification of multiple dmrt1s in catfish: Localization, dimorphic expression pattern, changes during testicular cycle and after methyltestosterone treatment
Article
Full-text available
  • Apr 2009
  • J MOL ENDOCRINOL
The double sex and mab-3 related (DM) transcription factor 1 (dmrt1) plays an important role in testicular differentiation. Here, we report cloning of multiple dmrt1s, a full-length and two alternative spliced forms from adult catfish (Clarias gariepinus) testis, which encode predicted proteins of 287 (dmrt1a), 253 (dmrt1b) and 233 (dmrt1c) amino acid residues respectively. Interestingly, dmrt1c lacks the majority of the DM domain. Multiple dmrt1s (dmrt1a and dmrt1c) were obtained from Clarias batrachus as well. Tissue distribution (transcript and protein) of catfish dmrt1 revealed exclusive expression in testis. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR revealed the presence of multiple dmrt1s with high levels of dmrt1a in adult testis but not in ovary. Real-time RT-PCR analysis during testicular cycle showed higher levels of dmrt1 transcripts in preparatory and pre-spawning when compared with spawning and post-spawning phases. Immunocytochemical and immunofluorescence localization revealed the presence of catfish Dmrt1 protein in spermatogonia and spermatocytes, which indicates plausible role in spermatogenesis. Histological analysis indicated initiation of gonadal sex differentiation in catfish around 40-50 days after hatching. The potential role for dmrt1 in testicular differentiation is evident from its stage-dependent elevated expression in developing testis. Furthermore, dimorphic expressions of dmrt1s were evident at different stages of gonadal development or recrudescence in catfish. Treatment of methyl testosterone (MT) during early stages of gonadal sex differentiation resulted in adult males. Interestingly, we also obtained MT-treated fishes having ova-testis gonads. Analysis of dmrt1, sox9a, foxl2 and cyp19a1 expression patterns in MT-treated gonads revealed tissue-specific pattern. These results together suggest that multiple dmrt1s are testis-specific markers in catfish.
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Phylogenetic Correlation Among Carpfishes and Catfishes Using a Nuclear Protein Coding Genetic Data (Gh) Retrieved from Genbank Using a Freeware Computational Evolutionary Biology Package MEGA, 4
Article
  • May 2009
Computational Evolutionary Biology tools can be effectively utilized to study the relatedness of genetic data from different sources. The present investigation is aimed to study the variability and relatedness among a Nuclear Protein coding Gene among candidates of two different fish groups, the Carpfishes and the Catfishes by the Phylogenetic tree topologies resulting from four different computational models as Maximum parsimony (MP), Unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA), Minimum evolution and Neighbor Joining Method. The respective nucleotide sequences were retrieved from the GENBANK database, aligned by Clustal W algorithm and subjected to computational models for constructing phylogenetic trees. Tests of Neutrality for the observations are also reported. The study was conducted by a freeware Computational Evolutionary Biology package MEGA, 4.
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Growth Economics and Biometric Comparison of Length Weight Relationship in Two Intra Generic Varieties of Clarias Isolated from Dumbur Lake, in a Rural District of Tripura, India
Article
  • Mar 2008
Comparative study on length-weight relationship of wild Clarias batrachus isolated from the Dumbur Lake of South Tripura district, Amarpur sub-division (Approximate Longitude 92◦ E, Latitude 23◦ N) and an exotic variety of the same species cultured in various water bodies in the same district, was conducted from Oct, 07 to Feb, 08. Biometric study of length-weight relationship is an important tool for growth assessment as well as an indicator of health condition of an animal. Length-weight relationship was calculated for the wild and the exotic variety of Clarias by the following equation log10W= log10a b log10 L. Regression analysis and relative condition factor as described in the text depicts that the exotic Clarias species has higher increment of body mass, compared to the wild Clarias batrachus of the same length groups. This probably indicates toward a less selective pray catch and omnivorous food habit of the exotic breed as well as of its high feed conversion efficiency.
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Approaches to optimizing dietary protein to energy ratio for African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)
Article
An 8-week feeding trial was conducted in a recycling water system at 28 ± 1 °C to investigate protein to energy ratio (P/E ratio) in African catfish Clarias gariepinus (10.9 ± 0.04 g). Six fishmeal-based diets of two protein levels (330 and 430 g kg−1), each with three lipid levels (40, 80 and 120 g kg−1) resulted in P/E ratios ranging from 15.5 to 21.3 mg protein kJ−1 gross energy (GE) were fed to 20 fish (per 30-L tank) in triplicate. Fish were fed 50 g kg−1 of their body weight per day adjusted fortnightly. Significantly higher (P < 0.05) growth rates and feed conversion efficiency were evident in fish fed with higher protein diet. The highest growth rate was found by fish fed 430 g kg−1 protein, 21.2 kJ−1 GE with a P/E ratio of 20.5 mg protein kJ−1 GE. Significantly indifferent (P > 0.05) values of protein utilization were found in-between the both (higher and lower) protein diets. Higher lipid deposition (P < 0.05) in whole body and liver was observed with increasing dietary lipid level at each protein diet and as higher (P < 0.05) for the lower protein diets. Liver glycogen tended to decrease with increasing gross energy at each protein diet and higher protein diet showed comparatively lower values (P > 0.05). Digestive enzyme activities (protease and lipase) and histological examination of intestine and liver of fish fed varying P/E diets found no significant differences in response to experimental diets. The study reveals that African catfish C. gariepinus performed best the diet containing 430 g kg−1, 21.2 kJ g−1 and 20.5 mg protein kJ g−1 GE protein, gross energy and P/E ratio, respectively.
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Nutritional quality of African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell 1822): A positive criterion for the future development of the European production of Siluroidei
Article
The aims of this study were to evaluate the nutritional quality (proximate composition, amino and fatty acid profiles, cholesterol and mineral contents) of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and determine the effect of different cooking methods (grilling, boiling and frying) on biochemical composition. Frying produced the highest water loss and fat gain (P < 0.05). Frying also affected the fatty acid composition significantly (P < 0.05), increasing oleic (18:1n-9) and linoleic (18:2n-6) acid contents. The major essential amino acids were arginine and lysine, and the limiting was the sulphur amino acid methionine. The changes in the cholesterol and mineral contents (K > P > Na > Mg > Ca > Zn > Fe > Cu > Mn) and nutrient-recommended dietary intakes are discussed and several indices (chemical score, amino acid score, essential amino acid index, biological value, nutritional index, retention values, atherogenic index, thrombogenic index and hypercholesterolaemic potential) are presented. The valorisation of these products may stimulate the development of aquaculture production and consumers’ interest in Europe.
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31P Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Studies on the Phosphorus-Containing Metabolites of the Developing Embryos of a Freshwater Catfish, Clarias batrachus (L.)
Article
  • Jan 1999
Changes in the phosphorus-containing metabolites were monitored by 31P nuclear magnetic resonance in the developing embryos of Clarias batrachus. Phosphomonoester, yolk phosphoprotein, phosphocreatine, ATP, and inorganic phosphate (Pi) were consistently observed in all the developmental stages of C. batrachus. None of these phosphometabolites exhibited any significant change in their concentration up to the blastula stage, whereas distinct decrease in all except inorganic phosphate was observed in the fry stage. Concomitantly an increase in the concentration of inorganic phosphate was observed. Further, from the resonance positions of α, β, and γ phosphate groups of ATP, it was evident that the ATP molecules in vivo were liganded either to Ca2+ or Mg2+. This study also revealed that the intracellular pH of the developing embryos was approximately 7.05 up to the gastrula stage, after which it decreased in the fry stage to 6.98 units.
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Low concentration of arsenic could induce caspase-3 mediated head kidney macrophage apoptosis with JNK–p38 activation in Clarias batrachus
Article
  • Dec 2009
We had earlier demonstrated that chronic exposure (30 days) to micro-molar concentration (0.50 μM) of arsenic induced head kidney macrophage (HKM) death in Clarias batrachus. The purpose of the present study is to characterize the nature of HKM death induced by arsenic and elucidate the signal transduction pathways involved in the process. Arsenic-induced HKM death was apoptotic in nature as evident from DNA gel, Annexin V–propidium iodide, Hoechst 33342 staining and TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assays. Inhibitor studies and immunoblot analyses further demonstrated that arsenic-induced HKM apoptosis involved activation of caspase-3 and cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, a well-characterized caspase-3 substrate. Preincubation with antioxidants N-acetyl-cysteine or dimethyl sulfoxide significantly lowered reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in arsenic-treated HKM and prevented caspase activation, malondialdehyde formation and HKM apoptosis. Arsenic induced membrane translocation of the NADPH oxidase subunit p47phox. Preincubation with apocynin and diphenyleneiodonium chloride, both selective inhibitors of NADPH oxidases, prevented p47phox translocation, ROS production and HKM death. Exposure of HKM to arsenic induced the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase family (MAPK) proteins including c-Jun NH2-terminal protein kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38). Preincubation of HKM with p38 inhibitor SB203580 and JNK inhibitor SP600125 protected the HKM against arsenic-induced apoptosis. We conclude that exposure to micro-molar concentration of arsenic induces ROS generation through the activation of NADPH oxidases, which in turn causes caspase-3 mediated HKM apoptosis. In addition, the study also indicates a role of p38–JNK pathway in arsenic-induced HKM apoptosis in C. batrachus.
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Histopathological manifestations in kidney of Clarias batrachus induced by experimental Procamallanus infection
Article
  • Oct 2008
Kidney of Clarias batrachus infected with Procamallanus showed varying degrees of histopathological alterations on 15, 30, 45 and 60 days post-infection. The infected kidney showed variable sized glomeruli, cloudy swelling in tubules, vacuolar/atrophic degeneration, fibrosis, mild degenerative changes in distal convoluted tubules, enlarged Bowmen's capsule, necrotic changes as well as increased granulation and hyperplasia in proximal convoluted tubules after 15 days. After 30 days of infection, the changes were rupture of Bowmen's capsule wall, degenerative changes, edema, necrosis, pyknosis, karyorrhexis and karyolysis in proximal and distal convoluted tubules, fibrosis, cloudy swelling and inflammatory lymphocytes, proliferation and shrinkage in glomeruli, and vacuolization in proximal convoluted tubules as well as cloudy swelling. After 45 days, the infected kidney showed cloudy swelling in glomeruli as well as variation in their size, infiltration of RBCs in intralobular vein and necrosis in proximal convoluted tubules, cloudy swelling in interstitium, vacuolization in the epithelial lining cells, necrosis in haemopoietic tissue and inflammatory edema. After 60 days post-infection, the changes were rupture of intralobular vein, cloudy swelling, necrosis in few proximal convoluted tubules, atrophy and shrinkage in glomeruli, distinct inflammatory edema, pyknosis, karyorrhexis and karyolysis, aggregation of lymphocytes and dilation in blood vessels.
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