Kochi: Marking the National Fish Farmers Day, the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) launched a three-day hands on training on sustainable fish feed production technology using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae, on Thursday.
The training is aimed at empowering beneficiaries of CMFRI’s Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) with practical knowledge and skills in sustainable feed formulation and production techniques for cage fish and bio-floc farming practices. The fish feed using BSF larvae is effective to support fish growth in aquaculture making it a viable substitute for conventional feed ingredients such as fish meal and soybean. BSF larvae is a nutrient rich and eco-friendly alternative protein source.
CMFRI Director Dr Grinson George, who inaugurated the training said that this initiative is part of CMFRI’s ongoing efforts to enhance livelihood opportunities for marginalised coastal communities through targeted capacity building.
Cost effective feed
“The cost of feed is a major factor in fish farming, making up 40-60% of total operational cost in general. This is even higher in an intensive farming system. Hence, cost effective pellet feed preparation is crucial to increase profit from cage and bio-floc fish farming, which are becoming popular livelihood options for many, including women”, he said.
“The participants will be trained in processing BSF larvae into fish feed, showcasing its potential to reduce dependency on conventional fish meal and promote circular economy practices in coastal aquaculture”, Dr George added.
Under the SCSP scheme, CMFRI supports fish farmers belonging to the SC community to undertake cost-effective coastal aquaculture practices including cage fish farming and bio-floc farming.
Dr K Madhu, Dr Vipin Kumar V P, Dr Rema Madhu and Dr Sanal Ebeneezar spoke on the occasion.