Trout is a freshwater fish which is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and selenium. It is also a good source of protein. Hence, there is a huge demand for this delicious fish in Pakistan. To meet this demand, the government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is considering several measures.
Trout is a fresh water fish
Trout is a fresh water fish indigenous to Pakistan. In the early 20th century, the British brought brown and rainbow trout to the region. These trout play a vital role in the ecosystem of rivers and lakes, supporting both recreational and commercial fisheries. They also help to stabilise the aquatic ecosystem.
Until the 1990s, trout fishing was a major source of livelihood and provided the local population with essential nutrition. However, the trout population has declined sharply due to pollution and unchecked construction. Wildlife and environment expert Muhammad Waseem of WWF-Pakistan says the fish population has not been studied enough to determine the exact numbers of trout in the Kunhar River. There are also a lack of facilities to survey the population accurately.
The government of Pakistan has been supporting trout farming and promoting private fish farms in mountainous regions. Recently, the federal government allocated Rs 112 million to support the development of fish and shrimp farms in the country. The aim is to boost food security and export earnings and create jobs. The support provided by the government includes training sessions and fish feed. However, the effluent from some of these farms is released directly into rivers and streams.
During the monsoon season, fishing for trout can be very lucrative in Pakistan. There are over two hundred trout farms in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan alone. Tourists visiting these areas can purchase licences for US$2 per day or Rs15 for Pakistani citizens. There are also season tickets for as little as Rs200.
It is a source of protein
Trout fish is one of the most widely consumed forms of fish in Pakistan, and is considered a high-quality source of protein. However, the process of fish culturing has many risks, including the threat of bacterial pathogens. Since fish is so close to their aquatic environment, it is easy to become infected with bacteria that cause diseases. One study found that seven different bacterial pathogens were isolated from injured rainbow trout.
It is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids
Trout fish in Pakistan is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Although the country’s average per capita consumption of fish is low, the country produces a lot of fish. In fact, in 2016-17, the country exported 103,277 tons of fish. These exports were worth $266 million and represented 1.2 percent of the country’s merchandise trade. The most common fish grown in Pakistan include the common carp, thela, and rainbow trout.
While the availability of fish in Pakistan is adequate, it’s not possible for many patients to access fish supplements. Even worse, oily fish can contain toxic levels of methylmercury, which can cause myocardial infarction and damage the nervous system. Lack of regulation and water quality controls make the problem worse.
In addition to trout, Pakistan’s seas are home to several other types of fish. The country produces over 600,000 tons of fish annually. Rohu, for example, is a non-oily white fish with a red-grey tint on its upper body and a light golden body. It lives in cold running waters in the north of Pakistan.
Fatty fish are the best source of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve heart and brain performance. Fish oil supplements also contain squalene and may reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.
It is an excellent source of phosphorus
The government supports trout farms and private fish farms. The federal government has allocated Rs 112 million to fish farms in the mountain provinces. The goal is to create jobs, improve food security, and increase export earnings. Support includes training sessions and fish feed. However, concerns are growing over pollution from the industry. Some fish farms drain untreated effluent directly into rivers and streams. Some of these waters are used for drinking water.
According to the Institute of Medicine, adults should consume at least 700 milligrams of phosphorus daily. Children should get around 1,250 milligrams per day. One serving of rainbow yellow trout contains 226 milligrams of phosphorus. It is also an excellent source of the B-vitamin complex.
It is a source of retinal pigment
Trout fish in Pakistan is a valuable source of the pigment called retinal pigment. However, these fish have specific requirements for their survival, making it difficult to transport them from Gilgit-Baltistan to other regions of the country. Farmers are aware of these difficulties and have started submitting proposals to the local fisheries department for financial and technical assistance. These proposals include the establishment of cold storage facilities for the fish.
