Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Pangasiid catfishes are key aquaculture species in Asia, known for high production rates and resilient biological features.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Statement I: Pangas (both the native Pangasius pangasius and the introduced exotic Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) is a major commercially cultured freshwater catfish in India, contributing heavily to total inland fish production.
Hence, Statement I is correct.
- Statement II: The genus Pangasius is represented in the native riverine waters of India solely by one species, Pangasius pangasius (common yellow-tail catfish of the Ganges/Hooghly systems).
Although the exotic striped catfish is cultured, it belongs to the genus Pangasianodon (not Pangasius).
Hence, Statement II is correct.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Both Statement I and Statement II are correct, which corresponds to option (A).