Growth, survival and proximate composition analysis of Pengba, Osteobrama belangeri (Valenciennes, 1844), cultured with Indian major carps in natural ponds of Purulia, West Bengal

With aim to diversify the polyculture system target has been determined to incorporate another important candidate species into the carp culture system in Purulia district of West Bengal. Osteobrama belangeri (Valenciennes, 1844), generally named as ‘Pengba’ in Manipur, India is incorporated along with other Indian major carps viz, rohu, catla and mrigal in Bhangra village under Purulia II block in Purulia. This polyculture has been continued for 12 months.  Pengba showed survival rate of 73% with a weight gain percentage of 6519.33 and specific growth rate of 1.16%, which is higher than rohu (1.08%) and lower than catla (1.36%) and mrigal (1.26%).  It attains the maximum size of 200 g during this culture period and this size is marketable. Though its growth rate is less than catla and mrigal in this region but due to its glossy silvery appearance and good nutrient value (moisture – 77.33%, crude protein – 20.87%, crude lipid – 0.65%, ash – 0.72%, NFE – 0.07%), it may create a demand among the fish farmers and customers. This research work summarizes the growth, survival, proximate composition and future prospects of Pengba in this region.