A Review on Induced Breeding of Fresh water Cat fish, Clarias batrachus in India

Abstract

Induced breeding of Asian cat fish Clarias batrachus of India by various hormonal analogues is reviewed based on published data. The breeding period of cat fishes in India is variable. Environmental factors play an important role in regulating reproduction in fishes. Pitutary gland extract, HCG and synthetic hormones viz., ovaprim and ovatide are successfully being tested   for the induced breeding of fishes by various researchers in different parts of the country, under different climatic conditions, with varying degree of success.  Even though natural spawning is the favorite method for breeding of cultivated fresh water fishes, induced breeding is necessary to control timing and synchrony of egg production.