top of page

Murrel Culture in Ponds

​

Introduction
Freshwater aquaculture is a crucial tool for economic growth and rural development. Murrel, a highly economical freshwater fish species, is widely cultured due to its ability to survive in low dissolved oxygen levels. Belonging to the family Channidae and also known as snakehead fish, murrel possesses a suprabranchial accessory respiratory organ that allows it to thrive in challenging conditions. It is easily recognized by its dark brown body with light black stripes.

Murrel is a popular and highly preferred freshwater fish across India. It holds regional significance, being the State fish of Telangana and a favored species in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Haryana, Bihar, and the North Eastern Region. Andhra Pradesh, the second-largest fish farming region in India, contributes significantly to inland fisheries with 0.8 million hectares of water bodies producing 1.24 MT annually.

Murrel is a predatory species that feeds on a variety of aquatic fauna. Its high market demand, high economic value, and resilience to adverse environmental conditions make it a suitable candidate for aquaculture. In India, the major aquaculture species include:

  • Striped murrel (Channa striatus)

  • Great snakehead murrel (Channa marulius)

  • Spotted snakehead (Channa punctatus)

Of these, striped murrel has a well-standardized culture technology. With proper management practices, murrel farming has enormous potential in freshwater aquaculture.

Local Names of Murrel Fish in India

  • Hindi: Murrai

  • Telugu: Korameenu, Koramatta

  • Tamil: Viral meen

  • Malayalam: Korava, Vatton, Varal

  • Bengali: Cheng, Shol

  • Marathi: Maral

  • Assamese: Hal

  • Oriya: Gadisha

Salient Features

  • High-value food fish with live market potential.

  • Can be cultured in small backyard ponds, shallow ponds, or community water bodies.

  • Value-added products such as fillets, pickles, and curries have high consumer demand.

Pond Layout & Grow-out Culture

Murrel ponds should be constructed in areas with high-quality water. The ideal pond size for striped murrel grow-out is 0.1-0.2 hectares, with a water depth of 1-1.5 meters. Lining the pond bottom and dyke helps prevent water seepage.

  • Stocking Density: 10,000 fingerlings per hectare

  • Stocking Size: 5-8 cm or more

  • Expected Growth: 600-700 grams within 8-10 months

Water Temperature & Dissolved Oxygen

Murrel is an air-breathing fish that can tolerate low dissolved oxygen levels. However, controlling water temperature improves growth and feed conversion efficiency.

Seed Selection & Suppliers

Weaned fingerlings of uniform size (5-8 cm or more) should be stocked for better growth. Quality seed suppliers are available in Telangana, ensuring optimal fingerlings for aquaculture.

Feed Requirements

Murrel is a carnivorous species, requiring a protein-rich diet.

  • Initial Feeding Rate: 5% of body weight

  • Later Growth Stage: 2-3% of body weight

High-protein murrel feed is available in local markets to support optimal growth.

Harvesting & Marketing

Murrel can be harvested when they reach 600-700 grams. Fishing nets are commonly used for collection.

  • Market Price: ₹400-500 per kg

  • Selling Options: Open markets, live fish markets

  • Market Demand: High consumer preference due to live sale potential and superior taste

The combination of high market value, consumer demand, and murrel’s resilience makes it an excellent candidate for freshwater aquaculture in India.

​

​

Source: National Fisheries Development Board

bottom of page