Pengba, a prospective Species for diversification of carp polyculture.

Abstract

Osteobrama belangeri, locally known as pengba in Manipur, India and nga-hpeh-oung and nga-net-hua in Myanmar, is a medium-size cyprinid endemic to the eastern part of Manipur, Myanmar and Yunnan Province in China. Although the species is listed as near threatened by the IUCN, there is a sizable population in Myanmar but is extinct in the wild in Manipur. With emphasis on diversification of Indian carp culturein recent years, attempts have been made to incorporate other potential candidate species into mainstream carp culture. Despite its culture potential, no systematic attempt has been made to culture and propagate this species in India. Although it is a highvalue species, especially in the northeastern states, monoculture may not be a suitable proposition, considering its lower growth potential compared to Indian major carps. Pengba is suitable for pond culture because it is herbivorous and thus can be included in composite fish culture in place of grass carp. It has also been possible to produce most of its preferred foods through fertilization of culture ponds and provision of supplementary artificial feeds. Seed production technology and its supply is a major constraint. Hence, intensification of induced breeding and attempts to culture this fish have been given high priority. This article summarizes induced breeding technology, culture aspects,conservation strategies and future prospects for pengba.