Ghol – The State Fish

Blog Credit: Trupti Thakur

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Ghol – The State Fish of Gujarat

The state government recently named the ‘ghol’ species the state fish of Gujarat at the inauguration of the Global Fisheries Conference India 2023. The ghol or blackspotted croaker (Protonibea diacanthus) is a prized catch because of the high value of its swim bladder, which is rich in collagen and is used in the making of cosmetics.

The announcement was made by chief minister Bhupendra Patel at the event held at the Science City, in the presence of Union fisheries minister Parshottam Rupala.

Gujarat recently declared the black-spotted croaker (Protonibea Diacanthus), locally known as the Ghol fish, as the state fish.

Ghol fish , also known as the blackspotted croaker, is a species of fish native to the Indo-Pacific region. This fish an exotic specimen, considered to be one of the finest and most expensive variety of the marine fish. The Ghol fish, which is mostly found in the Indo-Pacific region, is one of the most expensive marine species in the world.

Ghol fish, biologically known as ‘Protonibea Diacanthus’ and commonly called the black-spotted croaker fish, is an exotic specimen. It is and prized in east Asia for its medicinal properties. From iodine, omega-3, DHA, EPA, iron, taurine, magnesium, fluoride, to selenium, it is loaded with rich nutrients. What makes this fish to be called as ‘Sea Gold’ is a pouch in its stomach, which has potent medicinal properties and has a high valuation in the overseas market.

• The decision was based on various factors, emphasizing its uniqueness, economic value, and the need for conservation.

What are the Key Facts About Ghol Fish?

• Geographical Distribution:
  • The ghol fish is primarily found in the Indo-Pacific region.
    • Its habitat spans from the Persian Gulfto the expansive waters of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Economic Significance:
    • The ghol fish has a substantial market demand inChina and other Asian countries.
      • Ghol fish is also known as‘Sea Gold’ for its high market value.
    • Its meat is exported toEuropean and Middle-Eastern countries, while the dried air bladder is in high demand, especially in China.
    • A kilogram of ghol can fetch between Rs 5,000 to Rs 15,000 in Gujarat.
      • The dried air bladder, considered the costliest part, can reach amounts as high as Rs 25,000 a kilogram in the export market.

Benefits of Ghol fish

• Good for eye health: This fish contains many vitamins, minerals, and proteins, which helps in maintaining eyesight.
• Prevent ageing and wrinkles: The collagen content in the ghol fish prevents wrinkles and also keeps the elasticity of the skin intact.
• Improves IQ of infants: Omega-3 content in it improves IQ of infants if fed on a regular basis – it stimulates the growth of brain cells.
• Toning muscles: The black-spotted croaker is one fish that has tremendous benefits for toning muscles because of various minerals and vitamins. It provides Vitamin C that is required for collagen and elastin synthesis which has helps to supply essentials nutrients to the muscles.

• Omega-3 content in ghol fish improves the Intelligence Quotient (IQ) of infants if fed on a regular basis – it stimulates the growth of brain cells.

 

 

Blog By: Trupti Thakur