The Hidden Danger in Indian Coldwater Aquaculture: How Pollutants Impact the Aquatic Environment?

India is the second largest fish producer in the world after China. The fish farming industry of India is growing at an annual rate of 8%. At present context, Indian fish farming industry faces the problem of pollutants in water bodies. These pollutants pose a higher threat to coldwater fish species than warmwater fishes due to their slow metabolism and high lipid content. This makes it easier for contaminants to accumulate in their bodies. Agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and aquaculture-related chemicals are the main sources of pollutants in Indian coldwater aquaculture. These pollutants can harm the aquatic environment and inhabiting biota. The book chapter provides a detailed account of the harmful effects of pollutants on the aquatic environment. These effects include reduced dissolved oxygen levels and altered pH. Overall, this chapter provides overview of the challenges faced by the Indian aquaculture industry in the context of aquatic pollutants and highlights the need for sustainable and responsible practices to mitigate the negative impact of pollutants.