A large number of our population is dependent on fish, fish products and other aquatic animals such as prawn, crab, lobster, edible oyster, etc., for food. Some of the freshwater fishes which are very common include Catla, Rohu and common carp. Some of the marine fishes that are eaten include – Hilsa, Sardines, Mackerel and Pomfrets.

Fishery plays an important role in enhancement of food production because of the following reasons.

(a) Fishes provide food that is the rich source of animal proteins, fats, good amount of vitamins A and D and iodine.

(b) Fish’s meat is easily digestible than the meat of other animals.

(c) Fish breeding also produces a number of useful by-products like vitamin-rich liver oil.