WWW.WAS.ORG • WORLD AQUACULTURE • SEPTEMBER 2025 49 small insects, ant eggs, frozen tubifex worms, and artemia. This diverse diet ensured they received the necessary nutrients for robust health, vibrant coloration, and successful breeding. Through careful acclimatization and habitat simulation, the broodstock of Badis blosyrus was successfully maintained, laying the foundation for subsequent breeding trials. Water Quality Management: Creating an Optimal Environment for Badis blosyrus Maintaining optimal water quality was a crucial aspect of the breeding trial, as Badis blosyrus thrives in well-oxygenated, moderate-temperature freshwater conditions. To replicate their natural habitat and promote successful breeding, strict monitoring and regulation of water quality parameters were ensured throughout the study. The water temperature was maintained between 20 and 28 °C, a range suitable for the species’ physiological functions, including feeding, metabolism, and reproductive activity. A stable pH of 7.0 was maintained to provide a neutral environment, closely resembling their native slow-flowing streams. Dissolved oxygen levels were kept between 6 and 8 mg/L, ensuring ample oxygen supply to support the fish’s respiration and overall health. Alkalinity, which plays a vital role in buffering pH fluctuations, was maintained between 100 to 184 mg/L, creating a stable aquatic environment. Toxic ammonia (NH3) levels were meticulously controlled, ranging from 0 to 0.0012 mg/L, ensuring a safe and stress-free habitat for the fish. Additionally, free carbon dioxide (CO2) levels were monitored and kept below 1.0 mg/L, preventing any potential fluctuations that could negatively impact the fish’s well-being. To enhance the breeding environment, the tank was enriched with natural elements such as pebbles, underwater plants, and earthen pots, which provided hiding spaces and suitable spawning sites. These additions not only mimicked the species’ natural ecosystem but also encouraged their instinctive breeding behaviour. Through careful regulation of water parameters and thoughtful habitat design, a favourable environment was established, ensuring the health and reproductive success of Badis blosyrus in captivity. Reproductive Biology of Badis blosyrus Understanding the reproductive biology of Badis blosyrus is essential for successful breeding and population management. These fish exhibit clear sexual dimorphism, making it easy to distinguish males from females based on their size, coloration, and body structure. On average, females measured 6.8±0.77 cm in length and weighed 3.8±0.23 g, whereas males were slightly larger, reaching 8.0±1.02 cm in length and weighing 3.5±0.31 g. Males are easily recognizable by their brighter coloration, longer dorsal and anal fins, and more elongated body shape. In contrast, females are smaller, less colourful, and have a rounder, shorter body profile. During the breeding season, males become highly territorial and aggressive towards other males, displaying intensified body coloration and unique patterning to attract potential mates. They spend most of their time inside caves or other hiding spots, engaging in courtship and pairing behaviour with receptive females. When females become gravid (ready to spawn), their abdomen swells noticeably, indicating the presence of mature eggs. In both males and females, gentle pressure on the abdomen results in the release of milt (sperm) or eggs, confirming reproductive readiness. The breeding season of Badis blosyrus extends from late February to August in their native range, allowing for multiple spawning cycles in a single year. The gonadosomatic index (GSI), which measures the reproductive investment of the fish, ranged from 1.01 to 17.89 in females and 0.94 to 13.21 in males. This indicates that females invest heavily in egg production during the peak breeding months. The absolute fecundity (total number of eggs per fish) varied between 892 and 940 eggs per individual, while the relative fecundity (number of eggs per gram of body weight) ranged from 142 to 150 eggs per gram. The ova diameter (size of the eggs) varied between 69.44 µm to 701.9 µm, indicating different stages of egg development. The ovaries were yellowish in colour with visible red blood capillaries, signifying active reproductive activity. With a long breeding season and high reproductive potential, Badis blosyrus proves to be a viable species for captive breeding programs. By understanding its reproductive traits, farmers and breeders can optimize breeding conditions, ensuring a steady supply (CONTINUED ON PAGE 50) FIGURE 2. (Left) Male brooder of B. blosyrus, (Right) Female brooder of B. blosyrus.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjExNDY=