ICAR-CIBA has undertaken focused research program on feed development for the emerging ornamental fish rearing and developed a novel “Colourfish feed”, an import substitute, for aquarium fish rearing. This feed is scientifically formulated to maintain good health and colour of the ornamental fish, growth is not the primary objective in the aquarium feed. The technology transfer on a non-exclusive basis is for the customized feed mill and scaling up of ornamental fish feed production. Techno Feeder Private limited, Chennai signed MoU with CIBA on 11th June 2019, through the MOU, the company envisaged to produce the ornamental feed with CIBA’s technical guidance. As per the agreement the initial quantity of feed required for test marketing will be produced by CIBA and the client will manufacture the feed in his own facilities afterwards. Dr. K.K. Vijayan, Director, during the function, highlighted the necessity of Indian brand of quality ornamental feeds to meet the growing demand of the sector, presently supplied by oversees products. He stressed the significance of quality and cost effectiveness and affordability of the feed. Dr. K. Ambasankar Principal Scientist and team leader for the technology briefed about the significance of this MoU, and outlined the genesis of this initiative, and opined that the success of this model, and availability of the cost effective and quality feeds would pave the way for the growth of the growing ornamental fish rearing sector in India. Mr. Ranjith Manivannan, Director, Techno Feeder Private limited, India opined that the feeds available in the market are not only costly but the quality is highly variable. This joint initiative will lead to the establishment of Desi brand aquarium feeds and meet the consumer requirement of quality feed. This event was coordinated by the ITMU-ABI unit of ICAR CIBA and the nutrition team scientists along with ITMU-ABI unit, HODs participated in the meeting. Earlier Dr. T. Ravisankar welcomed the gathering and Dr. P. K. Patil delivered the vote of thanks.
