Channa Striata: Telangana’s State Fish And Its Role In Local Ecosystems

Abstract

Striped snakehead (Channa striata) is a freshwater predaceous fish that is an important part of the balance of the ecosystem and also a vital source of fisheries sustainability. It is a keystone species in Telangana’s freshwater ecosystem as it is involved in biodiversity regulation, regulating populations of smaller aquatic organisms, and as a prey for larger predators. Its ability to live in rivers, lakes, and wetlands, as well as low-oxygen environments, means it is a key part of aquatic food webs. C. striata is also economically and culturally important in Telangana’s fisheries and aquaculture industry. It is a highly valued species because of its high nutritional content, rapid growth rate, and market demand. Moreover, the therapeutic properties of this herb are being recognized by traditional medicine practitioners who claim that it can promote improvement in wound healing and the immune system. While C. striata presents resilience to several threats (habitat degradation, water pollution, overfishing, and climate change), some regions experience population declines due to these threats. While assessing existing research on C. striata, its ecological, economic, and medicinal significance are explored, and existing research trends, conservation, and management efforts, are also considered. This review serves to establish a basis for future studies and associated recommendations for policy that would secure the C. striata’s long-term survival in Telangana and beyond, through the identification of research gaps and sustainable aquaculture practices.