Conservation of Genetic Resources: Restoration of Fish Stocks

India is one of the 34 biodiversity hotspots of the world. It harbours more than 3500 fish species and more than 800 freshwater fish species. Different ecosystems harbour diverse fish species, which provide livelihoods to millions of people and serve as an important source of nutrition. As these ecosystems face multiple threats due to anthropogenic activities, pollution, overfishing, and the introduction of exotic fishes, there are chances of decline of fish stocks. Stock enhancement involves the release of cultured or captive-bred individuals into natural habitats to supplement wild populations. In India, this practice holds immense potential for replenishing declining fish stocks, conserving endangered species, and enhancing ecosystem resilience. By augmenting natural recruitment, stock enhancement can bolster fishery yields, thus ensuring food security and supporting the livelihoods of millions dependent on inland fisheries. Many efforts are being made by different research organizations and governments for the restoration of fishes, like cryopreservation of milt, breeding of the fishes, and ranching of the fishes, so that fisheries will be sustainable. Many projects were formulated for the genetic characterization and conservation of fishes. Coupling with these efforts, stock enhancement programmes are being carried out. ICAR-CMFRI is continuously doing the shrimp stock enhancement using hatchery-produced Penaeus semisulcatus in Mandapam to improve the fishery from reservoirs. A few examples of stock enhancement programmes of fishes carried out in different parts of the world and some of the efforts taken by the ICAR-NBFGR in collaboration with other research organizations are explained in the chapter.