IMPHAL, April 15 � The scientists at the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) Manipur centre have successfully induced breeding of Khabak (Bangana dero), an indigenous minor carp of the region in an extended breeding season.
�We have successfully started to breed Bangana dero in an extended breeding season following our attempt since last year,� Fishery scientist Ch Basuda of ICAR, Manipur centre said. �So now the fish species can breed even in September which is beyond normal breeding season (June-August).�
Endemic to Manipur, Myanmar and Yunan provinces of China, Khabak like another endemic medium carp Pengba (Osteobrama belangeri) has almost disappeared from the important water bodies of the State due to various factors. Hence intensification of induced breeding and attempt to culture this fish variety which is very popular for its taste, has been given priority.
Manipur�s seven endemic fishes were among the 15 endangered freshwater fish species listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)�s Red list of threatened species report on the status and distribution of freshwater biodiversity in Eastern Himalaya. Manipur has more than 200 fish species.
�Thus we took up the attempt to breed Bangana dero beyond its normal breeding season,� the Scientist added. �However, we are targetting to introduce the technique or methodology to the farmers this summer (June-July).�
