Aquarium trade in troubled waters

Hyderabad: Beholding ornamental fish in an aquarium gives unalloyed pleasure to those having fine-tuned sensibilities. Ornamental fish keeping and its propagation has been a lucrative activity for some and a source of aesthetic pleasure for others. They also offer financial openings. About 600 ornamental fish species have been reported worldwide. India too boasts of a rich diversity of ornamental fish, with over 100 indigenous varieties.

All said and done, the fondness for aquariums, which actually begins as a childhood fancy, has been waning in the city, with close to 600 small-time shopkeepers barely making any profit. Not so long ago, having an aquarium at home was a fad. Alas! Of late, stress, lack of time and the inevitability of reaching home late from office have taken a heavy toll on those who evince some interest in aquariums today.

The general secretary of Telangana Ornamental Fish Merchants Association (TOFMA), Vivek Reddy, says shopkeepers buy fish on credit from private financiers, but are unable to pay back due to lack of business. Ram Reddy, a fish dealer in the city, says: “In tanks and small ponds, fishes are very less. Because of that, we are facing loss in business. We are now getting fishes from Chennai, Calcutta and Kerala. During transport some fish die which is a loss for us.

Local fish feeding should be arranged, by which we can reduce our losses.” According to him, people just do not have time for fish as pets anymore. It is a different matter that some studies have proved that a little time spent in front of an aquarium reduces stress and helps control one’s blood pressure. Vastu and Feng Shui experts’ recommendations to have fish as pets notwithstanding, most people in the twin cities are no longer showing interest in fish, though it is considered auspicious in many eastern countries.

Ram, a shopkeeper in Regimental Bazaar, rues: “Just a few years ago there was a lot of interest, but the business dipped. We hope that business picks up this year.” “There is lack of awareness on the benefits of having aquariums at home and at offices, airports and malls. There is absolutely no support from the government. Aquariums stimulate positive ‘chi’ meaning ‘breath’ and the surrounding area gets positive energy.

Pet animals such as dogs and cats are still popular with people, but fishes too can be a great stress buster,” he continues. In a bid to get people to fall in love once again with fishes, TOFMA plans an exhibition and a portal for shopkeepers, hobbyists and common people where they can get knowledge, entertainment, inspiration and pleasure.

By ANERI SHAH