Question

Given below are two statements :
Statement (I) : African catfish is a fast growing one and recommended for culture in India.
Statement (II) : Pangasius catfish is a suitable species for freshwater aquaculture.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct.
• B. Statement (I) is incorrect and Statement (II) is correct.
• C. Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect.
• D. Both Statements (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect.

Hint:

Remember that the culture of the highly predatory African catfish (*Clarias gariepinus*) is legally banned in India, while *Pangasius* is permitted and widely cultivated across the country.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Introducing exotic (non-native) fish species into aquaculture can boost production but also carries ecological risks.
Species are evaluated for their impact on native biodiversity, and some may be prohibited while others are officially permitted for commercial farming.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze both statements:
- Statement (I) is incorrect. The African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) is indeed highly fast-growing, hardy, and air-breathing.
However, it is NOT recommended for culture in India; in fact, its culture is officially banned by the Government of India.
This ban is due to its invasive and predatory nature.
If it escapes into natural water bodies during floods, it poses a severe ecological threat by preying on and decimating native fish populations.
- Statement (II) is correct. The Pangasius catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) is an exotic species introduced in India.
It is highly suitable for freshwater aquaculture due to its fast growth rate, tolerance to high stocking densities, compatibility with artificial pellet feeds, and successful rearing in both ponds and cages.
The culture of Pangasius is permitted under regulated guidelines in India.
Therefore, Statement (I) is incorrect and Statement (II) is correct.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Statement (I) is incorrect, but Statement (II) is correct, matching Option (B).