Punjab bans fish farming of exotic magur

Punjab today banned fish farming of exotic magur (clarius gariepnus), saying that it is "hazardous" for the indigenous fishes of the state.
Punjab government issued directions placing complete ban on fish farming of exotic magur, an official release said here adding that the exotic magur eats other fishes and also their feed in the pond.
Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries Minister Gulzar Singh Ranike said that concerned matter was brought to the notice of Fisheries department and this specific breed of fish caused harmful effect on the environment and also posed danger to the Indian breeds.
A special committee has been constituted to ensure the compliance the order of state government and said the committee has issued instructions to the concerned department to conduct surprise checks in this regard.

12 kg of clarius gariepnus was seized and destroyed on the spot on August 25 and fine was also imposed on farmer in Village Gorla of District Sangrur.