What is Ornamental fish farming

Ornamental fish farming refers to the practice of breeding and raising fish that are kept for decorative purposes in aquariums and ponds. This industry focuses on various species known for their aesthetic appeal, and it involves activities such as breeding, rearing, and marketing these fish to consumers.
OR
Ornamental fish farming, also known as **aquaculture**, is the controlled cultivation of aquatic organisms (primarily fish) kept for aesthetic purposes in aquariums or ornamental ponds, rather than for food consumption. This specialized sector focuses on species valued for their vibrant colors, unique patterns, unusual morphologies, or behavioral traits. 

### Core Principles & Practices 
1. **Species Selection**: 
   - Targets non-food species like neon tetras (*Paracheirodon innesi*), bettas (*Betta splendens*), guppies (*Poecilia reticulata*), and discus (*Symphysodon* spp.). 
   - Prioritizes genetic traits enhancing visual appeal (e.g., albinism, long fins, metallic scales). 

2. **Production Systems**: 
   - **Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)**: Closed-loop setups with biofilters, UV sterilizers, and temperature control to maintain water quality. 
   - **Pond Culture**: Used for hardier species (e.g., koi carp) in outdoor environments. 
   - **Tank/Breeding Troughs**: Indoor systems for sensitive species requiring stable parameters (pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 24–30°C). 

3. **Breeding Techniques**: 
   - **Selective Breeding**: Enhances desirable phenotypes through controlled pairings. 
   - **Hormonal Induction**: Uses hormones like Ovaprim to synchronize spawning in captive broodstock. 
   - **Larval Rearing**: Specialized feeds (e.g., rotifers, *Artemia* nauplii) support high survival rates during critical early stages. 

4. **Health Management**: 
   - Prophylactic treatments against pathogens (e.g., *Ichthyophthirius multifiliis*). 
   - Quarantine protocols for new stock to prevent disease introduction. 

### Economic & Ecological Significance 
- **Global Trade Value**: Exceeds $15 billion annually, with major exporters including Singapore, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. 
- **Conservation Impact**: Reduces wild harvesting pressure on endangered species (e.g., Banggai cardinalfish *Pterapogon kauderni*). 
- **Sustainability Challenges**: 
  - Invasive species risks from escaped specimens (e.g., lionfish in the Atlantic). 
  - High energy/carbon footprint of intensive RAS facilities. 

### Innovations & Future Directions 
- **Cryopreservation**: Sperm banking for rare genetic lines. 
- **Biofloc Technology**: Enhances water reuse by cultivating microbial communities. 
- **Gene Editing**: CRISPR research exploring fluorescence enhancement in zebrafish. 

Ornamental aquaculture merges artisanal husbandry with advanced biotechnology, balancing market demands with environmental stewardship. Rigorous scientific protocols ensure ethical production while conserving aquatic biodiversity.