Size–group related variation in the feeding behaviour of an ornamental fish, Puntius conchonius from Mandal river system in Central Himalaya region of Garhwal, India

Abstract

The present work deals with the study of food and feeding habit of P. conchonious an ornamental fish of hill streams of Garhwal Himalaya. The gut content of fishes of various size and age groups were analyzed. It was observed that with the increase in size the preference for food changed. From the initial nature of being a carnivore it later on shifted towards herbivory with preference for algal matter. The study of this shifting food preference of fish will help in the management of the aquarium.

Keywords

• Size group
• Ornamental fish
• Puntius conchonius
• Mandal River