• Anita Verma
• P R Yadav

Sustainable aquaculture plays a vital role in mitigating environmental degradation and promoting biodiversity conservation. This study examines the ecological and economic benefits of integrating native fish species (Labeo rohita, Catla catla, and Cirrhinus mrigala) into aquaculture systems compared to non-native species (Oreochromis niloticus and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix). A controlled experiment was conducted in three ponds: one stocked with native species, another with non-native species, and a control pond with no fish stocking. The results showed that native fish ponds exhibited a 15-20% reduction in nutrient load (nitrate and phosphate levels) and a 30% improvement in dissolved oxygen, leading to better water quality. Biodiversity was enhanced, with higher plankton diversity and fewer algal blooms. While non-native species had higher short-term growth rates, native fish demonstrated more stable growth trends, higher survival rates (90% vs. 75%), and reduced dependency on artificial feed. Economically, native fish farming resulted in 20% higher profit margins due to lower feed costs and minimal environmental impact. This study highlights the potential of native fish species in ecosystem restoration and sustainable fisheries management, making them a viable alternative for environmentally responsible aquaculture.

Sustainable Aquaculture, Native Fish Species, Ecosystem Restoration, Biodiversity Conservation, Fisheries Management, etc.

""Integrating Native Fish Species in Aquaculture for Ecosystem Restoration: A Pathway to Sustainable Fisheries Management"", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 8, page no.48-55, August-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRHA06009.pdf

""Integrating Native Fish Species in Aquaculture for Ecosystem Restoration: A Pathway to Sustainable Fisheries Management"", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 8, page no. pp48-55, August-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRHA06009.pdf