Catfish (Clarias
gariepinus)
The study briefly give an
insight on description, feeding and health benefit of this species of Catfish
(Clarias gariepinus).
As malnutritions become a
major problem to some countries especially in tropical region, the demand for
fish as source of protein increased. Fish is of importance to diet. Fish is
also important to human populace in trade and economy. Fish are aboundant in
most water bodies. They can be found nearly in all aquatic environment.32,000
species of fish exist. Clarias gariepinus or Africa sharptooth catfish is
considered in this study.
Description :
Clarias gariepinus; Africa sharptooth
catfish is a species of catfish of the family clariidae. It is found throughout
in Africa and some parts in Middle East. It has an adult length of 1-1.5
meters. Clarias gariepinus lives in a variety of fresh water which include
lakes, streams ,swamps and flood plains, many of which are subjected to
seasonal dry.
It can also live conveniently in
human-oxidation pond. Development of egg is rapid and the larva is capable of
swimming within 48-72 hours after fertilization. It matures and is relatively
easy to reproduce.
Feeding
Clarias gariepinus is said to be ominivore.
It can feed on insects, plankton and protists. It is also capable of eating
dead vertebrate animals and a large variety of agriculture by-products.
Health Benefits of Cat Fish
- The British Heart
Foundation says eating oily fish can help to reduce the risk of heart disease
and improve your chance of survival following a heart attack.
- Serving of catfish
introduces 122 calories and 6.1g of fat into your diet.
- Eating catfish is a tasty
way to boost your intake of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
- The 15.6g of protein in a
serving of catfish provides you with all of the amino acids your body needs.
- Consume a serving of
catfish, and you take in 40 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin
B-12
- Almost all fish contain
mecury, a contaminant that may impact your nervous system, but you may safely
eat catfish with low-mecury.