Culture of Pangasianodon hypophthalmus into India: impacts and present scenario.

Pangasianodon aquaculture is the fastest growing food producing sector of the world. Recent national production of Pangasianodon hypophthalmus in India accounts for 0.7 million tonnes at present. Being influenced by trade and markets, P. hypophthalmus has been introduced to many countries including India. There has been a steady increase in the production of P. hypophthalmus by small and marginal farmers of the country. However, concern has arisen about the long-term sustainability due to diseases and its negative impacts on socio-economic aspects and biodiversity. Unregulated culture of P. hypophthalmus has been causing concern to environmental safety and warranting a very cautious and regulated approach to its culture. The standards, protocols and guidelines have been developed to address the issues of sustainability of Pangasianodon catfish production.