Conservation Initiative for Himalayan Fish

Conservation Initiative in Arunachal Pradesh

1. Species Focus:

   • The initiative aims to conserve Schizothorax pelzami, commonly known as the Transcaspian marinka, a ray-finned fish.
   • The species is considered endangered and is part of the carp family.

2. Objective:

   • Protect the Transcaspian marinka from mahseer, a predatory fish that is highly valued in sport fishing, often referred to as the “tiger of the water.”
   • Ensure sustainable community fishing practices.

3. Geographical Context:

   • The initiative is located in East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, at an average altitude of 3,400 feet above sea level.
   • Two villages involved are Talo and Weshi, situated approximately 20 km apart.

4. Translocation Process:

   • On June 28, members of the Sangno clan collected 52 fingerlings of the ray-finned fish from the Lapabung stream and released them in the Richaso stream to enhance their survival and breeding potential.
   • A stretch of the Richaso stream was chosen that is inaccessible to mahseer, increasing survival odds for the released fingerlings.

5. Community Engagement:

   • The translocation mission reflects a communal effort led to ensure sustainability in traditional fishing practices.
   • The village headman, Gajali Sangno, proposed a blanket ban on fishing in Richaso for five years to boost the population of the Transcaspian marinka.

6. Long-term Goals:

   • Planning for eco-angling and stream-trail trekking to promote sustainable tourism and further engage the community in conservation efforts.

7. Importance of Tradition:

   • The initiative reflects the need to modernize community fishing traditions responsibly while conserving biodiversity.

This initiative highlights the significance of local community involvement in conservation efforts and the interplay between traditional practices and sustainable ecological management.