by Bangla Krishi KhamarSinghi Fish Farming in India
Learn the Step-by-Step Guide for Profitable and Scientific Singhi Fish Cultivation by Bangla Krishi Khamar
Singhi fish is one of the most popular freshwater fishes in India. It is loved by all—especially patients—because it contains very low fat and is rich in high-quality, easily digestible protein. Singhi is known as a “Jiyol” (air-breathing) fish, which means it can survive in low-oxygen conditions, making it a favorite in local markets. Compared to many other fishes, the demand for Singhi is much higher.
Studies have shown that Singhi farming can be done intensively with simple techniques and yields good profits. In the Mymensingh region (Bangladesh), many farmers have benefited from this type of farming with the technical support of BFRI. In this guide, we will explain every step of intensive Singhi fish farming, from pond preparation to harvest.
How to Start Singhi Fish Farming in India
1. Pond Selection and Preparation
- Choose a 20 to 50 decimal (800 to 2000 sq meters) shaded pond.
- Water should stay for at least 7–8 months and have a depth of 1.5 to 2 meters.
- First, dry the pond completely.
- Remove black rotten mud from the bottom and repair the pond embankments.
- Leave the pond bottom to dry under sunlight for 6–7 days.
- Apply 20–30 gm bleaching powder per decimal to kill harmful germs.
- After 3–5 days, fill the pond with clean water up to 1.5 meters deep.
- Then, apply 0.5–1 kg lime per decimal mixed in water and spread evenly.
- After 3 days, you can start stocking Singhi fingerlings.
2. Singhi Fish Seed Stocking
- Stock 3,500 to 4,000 healthy Singhi Fish Seed per decimal .
- Be very careful during stocking:
- Match the temperature of pond water with the fingerling container water.
- Best stocking time is early morning or evening, when the temperature is low.
3. Feeding (Supplementary Diet)
- From the next day after stocking, feed protein-rich (32–35%) supplementary feed.
- Apply feed twice daily — before sunrise and after sunset.
- Feed amount should be 3–12% of body weight depending on fish age and size.
- Check sample fish every 10 days to adjust feed accordingly.
4. Water Quality Management
To get high production, water quality must be maintained:
- Always provide fresh, clean water at least 3 times a week.
- Keep water depth between 5–6 feet.
- Maintain pH between 7.0–8.0.
- Water clarity should be above 30 cm.
- Ammonia level must stay below 0.1.
5. Post-Stocking Care for Singhi Fish Farming
- Every 10 days, collect sample fish to monitor growth and adjust feed.
- After one month, apply 100 gm lime per decimal every 15 days, and after another 15 days, 400 gm salt per decimal.
- Install water hyacinth rings in parts of the pond for natural hiding areas.
- If temperature goes above 30°C, add fresh water to cool the pond.
- Protect the pond with net fencing to stop harmful animals from entering
6. Health & Disease Management
General Biosecurity
- Dry pond completely, use lime and eco-friendly disinfectants to kill internal germs.
- Use nets or barriers to stop animals or people from entering.
- Disinfect all tools like nets, containers before use.
- Choose only healthy fingerlings and maintain proper density to avoid stress.
7. Harvesting and Profit on Singhi Fish Farming :
- Harvest after 7 months when average fish weight reaches 55–65 gm.
- Drain the pond fully to collect fish.
- From a 50 decimal pond, farmers can produce 8–9 tons of Singhi.
- Total cost: Around ₹3.5 to ₹4 lakhs
- Expected income: Up to ₹8 to ₹9 lakhs per crop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the ideal pond size for Singhi farming?
You can start Singhi farming in ponds as small as 20 decimal (800 sq meters), but 50 decimal is ideal for commercial scale.
2. How many Singhi Fish Seeds are required per decimal?
You can stock 3,500–4,000 Singhi Seed per decimal, each weighing around 3–4 grams.
3. What kind of feed is best for Singhi fish?
Use supplementary feed with 32–35% protein, fed twice daily in the early morning and evening.
4. How long does it take for Singhi fish to grow?
It usually takes 7 months for the fish to reach a marketable weight of 55–65 grams.
5. What is the profit margin from Singhi fish farming?
From a 50 decimal pond, you can earn up to ₹8–9 lakhs with a cost of around ₹3.5–4 lakhs.
6. Where can I buy good quality Singhi fish seed in India?
You can get high-quality seeds from Bangla Krishi Khamar, the most trusted hatchery and Singhi fingerling supplier in India.