Marking National Fish Farmers Day on July 10, the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) launched a three-day hands-on training program on sustainable fish feed production using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae.

The training aims to equip beneficiaries of CMFRI’s Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) with practical knowledge and skills in sustainable feed formulation and production techniques for cage and biofloc fish farming systems. “Fish feed made with BSF larvae has proven effective in supporting fish growth in aquaculture, making it a viable alternative to conventional ingredients like fishmeal and soybean. BSF larvae are a nutrient-rich, eco-friendly protein source,” CMFRI said.

CMFRI Director Dr. Grinson George, who inaugurated the training, said the initiative is part of CMFRI’s ongoing efforts to improve livelihood opportunities for marginalized coastal communities through targeted capacity building.

“Feed costs typically account for 40-60% of total operational expenses in fish farming and can be even higher in intensive systems. Therefore, preparing cost-effective pellet feed is essential for boosting profits in cage and biofloc fish farming, which are becoming increasingly popular livelihood options, especially among women,” Dr. George said in a press release.

He added that “participants will learn how to process BSF larvae into fish feed, demonstrating its potential to reduce reliance on traditional fishmeal and support circular economy practices in coastal aquaculture.”

Under the SCSP program, CMFRI supports fish farmers from Scheduled Caste communities in adopting cost-effective coastal aquaculture practices, including cage and biofloc farming.

Dr. K. Madhu, Dr. Vipin Kumar V. P., Dr. Rema Madhu, and Dr. Sanal Ebeneezar also spoke at the event.