Biology of mrigal

Answer 1

The Mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala) is a freshwater fish species found in rivers and lakes throughout South Asia. It belongs to the family Cyprinidae and is an herbivorous fish species that mainly feeds on phytoplankton and aquatic plants.

The mrigal has a cylindrical body shape and can grow up to 60 cm in length and weigh up to 14 kg. It has a silver-grey body with a dorsal fin that is located near the middle of the body. The mrigal is a hardy species and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions.

The reproductive biology of mrigal is well-studied. It is known to spawn during the monsoon season in freshwaters. The male fish has a small papilla while the female has a larger opening to facilitate the spawning process. Fertilization is external, and both parents provide no further care to the eggs or fry.

The mrigal is an important aquaculture species in South Asia due to its high growth rate and the ease of culturing. It is commonly farmed alongside other species such as rohu and catla.

In conclusion, the mrigal is an important freshwater fish species found in South Asia. It is a herbivorous species that mainly feeds on phytoplankton and aquatic plants. Its reproductive biology is well-studied, and it is an important species in aquaculture due to its high growth rate.