Catla (Labeo catla)

News Excerpt:

Catla is one of the top ten species items mentioned in the "The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2024" report by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

More about News:

  • Catla is the eighth most produced aquatic species globally, with over 4 million tonnes harvested in 2022.
  • Catla is endemic to the riverine systems of northern India, the Indus plain, and adjoining areas of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar. It has been introduced into almost all riverine systems, reservoirs, and tanks across India.

Key Findings From Reports

  • Catla was traditionally farmed in the ponds of eastern Indian states and later spread across the country during the second half of the 20th century.
  • Catla, along with Rohu (Labeo rohita) and Mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala), are three of the most farmed fish in India's inland fisheries.
    • Whiteleg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei), with 6.8 million tonnes, was the top aquatic animal species produced in 2022.
  • The report highlighted significant variations in harvested species over the years, with notable regional differences. 
    • Until the late 1970s, finfish comprised approximately 90% of total aquatic animal production, compared to 75% in 2022.
  • The report notes that aquaculture production surpassed capture fisheries production for the first time in 2022, contributing to the rise in production of species like catla.
  • Eight of the top ten species of aquatic animals produced in 2022 were primarily from aquaculture, including catla.

The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2024

  • The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA) is a flagship report of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), which provides a comprehensive analysis of the global and regional status and trends in fisheries and aquaculture.
  • SOFIA 2024 will feature:
    • New data on the production, consumption, and trade of aquatic products and updated statistics on employment in fisheries and aquaculture;
    • Index of State of Stocks Sustainability and related trends; 
    • Case studies highlighting successful examples of Blue Transformation in action, providing evidence of impactful strategies that are fostering sector sustainability; 
    • Detailed analysis of the impact of El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on marine fisheries and aquaculture; 
  • Future projections with a forecast of fishery and aquaculture production and consumption until 2032.
  • The 2024 Report also features “Blue Transformation in Action,” a roadmap adopted in 2022, illustrating how FAO is leading collaborative efforts and initiatives in close coordination with Members, partners, and key stakeholders to guide global policy processes and disseminate best practices to support the intensification and expansion of sustainable aquaculture, effective fisheries management, and improved aquatic food value chains.

Key points:

  • Record Global Fisheries and Aquaculture Production in 2022
    • Global fisheries and aquaculture production hit record 223.2 million tonnes in 2022.
    • 89% of aquatic animals are used for human consumption.
    • Record $195 billion international trade across 230 countries.
    • Low- and middle-income countries had $45 billion net trade, surpassing agriculture.
    • Strengthening aquatic food systems essential to combat hunger, malnutrition, poverty.
  • Aquaculture Growth and Sustainability
    • Aquaculture surpassed capture fisheries in 2022, producing 94.4 million tonnes (51% of global production).
    • Inland aquaculture contributed 62.6%, and marine/coastal 37.4%.
    • Sustainable expansion of aquaculture is vital to meet rising global demand for aquatic foods.
  • Capture Fisheries and Sustainability Concerns
    • Global capture fisheries production remains stable but sustainability is a concern.
    • In 2021, only 62.3% of marine stocks were sustainable, highlighting the need for effective fisheries management.
  • Rising Global Demand for Aquatic Foods
    • Global consumption reached 165 million tonnes in 2022, growing faster than population.
    • Per capita consumption rose from 9.1 kg in 1961 to 20.7 kg in 2022.
    • Aquatic foods provide high-quality proteins and nutrients, contributing to food security and nutrition.
  • Projected Growth and Blue Transformation Roadmap
    • Aquatic animal production is expected to increase by 10% by 2032 to 205 million tonnes.
    • The Blue Transformation Roadmap aims for sustainable and equitable growth, promoting environmental conservation.
  • Small-Scale Fisheries' Importance
    • Small-scale fisheries contribute 40% of the global catch and support 90% of the capture fisheries workforce.
    • Women represent 40% of those engaged in the aquatic value chain.
    • Greater recognition and action are needed to support and empower small-scale fisheries communities.
  • Data Collection and Analysis Improvements
    • Efforts to improve data collection, analytical tools, and methodologies are crucial for effective management.
    • Enhanced assessments, revised data, and digital innovations provide more accurate insights for "Blue Transformation in action".

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