Murrel Fish Farming in India – A Profitable Opportunity with Feed Converted Method

(Published by Bangla Krishi Khamar – No.1 Murrel Fish Seeds Supplier in India)

Murrel fish, known locally as Shol Machh, is one of those native treasures of our country that’s slowly fading away from our natural water bodies. The scientific name is Channa striata, and in English, it’s called Snakehead Murrel, a member of the Channidae family. Years ago, this fish was common in canals, wetlands, and ponds across the country, but now it’s nearly vanishing from the wild.

What makes Shol fish special is not just its high market price—₹300 or more per kilo—but its powerful survival instinct. It can withstand tough weather conditions and fight its way through adversity. One more magical fact—mother Shol cares for her babies and protects them from danger on her own. That’s rare in the world of fish!

Feed Converted Murrel Fish Farming – The Game Changer

Now let’s talk about the most popular and profitable farming method—feed converted Murrel fish farming. In this system, instead of feeding live fish or animals throughout, we gradually shift the fish to ready-made feed or formulated fish food.

In a 1 decimal pond, you can stock anywhere between 300 to 1000 Murrel fingerlings. Since Murrel is carnivorous, the initial feed involves live aquatic animals like moyna (small water creatures). After that, we mix nursery feed with moyna. Slowly, the fish adapt to full dry feed. This transition is crucial. The better the feed quality, the faster and healthier the growth.

Within 4.5 to 6 months, Murrel fish reach market size—around 700 gm to 1 kg—and that’s where your profit starts to show. This method is already proving to be highly profitable in several parts of India.

Preparing the Pond

Murrel fish can be farmed in any pond, big or small, as long as you mimic their natural environment. They love to hide, so include water hyacinth (kochuri pana) and vines like komoli lota on about one-third of the pond area. Too much cover can block sunlight and oxygen, so balance is key.

Fencing the pond is extremely important—make it at least 5 feet high with netting around, especially during monsoon. Murrel are jumpers, and many farmers have lost fish during rains due to poor fencing.

Where to Get Murrel Fish Seeds?

Thanks to the growing demand, many hatcheries across India are now supplying quality Murrel fish seeds. Bangla Krishi Khamar proudly leads this mission. You can also collect young fingerlings from natural sources during their breeding season (starting in Baisakh). These fingerlings are ideal for stocking in ponds or tanks.

What to Feed the Fingerlings?

In the early days, Murrel fingerlings rely on zooplankton. Farmers should feed them ground dry shrimp powder, especially in the first 15 days. When they grow to 2–3 inches, start feeding them carp hatchlings, tiny frogs, and eventually high-protein commercial fish feed.

As they grow, transition them to larger prey, including small fish, which is a natural part of their diet. A well-fed Murrel can grow up to 3 feet long, making it an attractive option for commercial growers.

Disease Risks? Very Low.

Murrel fish are tough by nature. They rarely get sick. The only issue noticed sometimes is skin ulcer or wound during winter. Regular pond care and advice from a local fishery officer can solve it easily.

---

Why You Should Consider Murrel Farming Now

• ✅ High Market Demand & Price
• ✅ Less Prone to Disease
• ✅ Easy to Raise with Feed Conversion
• ✅ Native Fish with High Consumer Trust
• ✅ Profitable within 6 Months

At Bangla Krishi Khamar, we don’t just supply Murrel fish seeds—we guide you through the entire farming journey. If you’re wondering how to do feed converted Murrel fish farming or how to get Murrel fish seeds, we’re here to help.