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“ A report on fish farming in Kathmandu District, Nepal’’

A REPORT SUBMITTED AS A PART OF COURSE ASSIGNMENT

FOR THE PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
SECONDARY EDUCATION, NEB (GRADEXII)

Submitted by:
Subina Upreti
XII “SD62”
Submitted to:
Department of zoology
Xavier International Collage
Kalopul, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Contents
1. ATCKNOWLEDGEMENT
2. LETTER OF RECOMMENTION
3. ABSTRACT
4. INTRODUCTION
4.1 Objective to study
4.2 Significance of study
5.MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY
5.1 Study Area
5.2 Methodology
6. FINDING AND OBSERVATION
6.1 Breakdown of Tourt life cycle
6.2 Fish Feeding Practices
6.3 Health Management and Disease Prevention
7. CHALLENGES IN FISH FARMING AND HOW TO OVERCOME THEM
8. RESULT
9. CONCLUSION
10. REFERENCE
11. PHOTO PLATES
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This study was conducted as a parts of the requirements for the Grade XII Report
writing assignment to meet the practical criteria in Zoology.
I would first like to express my sincere gratitude to the management of the fish farm
for their generosity in sharing both their time and expertise during my visit. Their
valuable insights into the operations and challenges of trout farming provided us with
deeper understanding of aquaculture
I am also deeply appreciative of my zoology teacher, whose encouragement led me to
explore the hands-on aspects of fish farming and who offered invaluable guidance
throughout my research
Lastly, I extend my heartfelt thanks to my friends for their unwavering support
feedback and constructive criticism, all of which contributed greatly to the success of
this project
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LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
To whom it may concern,
This report serves as a testament to the valuable experiences and knowledge. I gained
during my visit to Organic Tout Center. This experience was instrumental in
expanding my knowledge and understanding of fish farming practices. I greatly
appreciate the opportunity to share my experiences and insights gained for this visit.
This is to recommend that the report entitled A REPORT ON FISH FARMING IN
KATHMANDU DISTRICT, NEPAL.

…………………………
Supervisor: Lila Gurung
Department of zoology
Xavier International Collage
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ABSTRACT
This report presents a comprehensive study of fish farming practices, focusing on the
various aspects of aquaculture. Through a visit to Nepal Trout Fish House the research
explores the fish species cultivated there, their habitats, and the management practices
employed by the farm owner. Key finding highlights the importance of sustainable
farming techniques in maintaining water quality, ensuring fish health, and optimizing
yield. Interviews with the farm operators provide insights into the challenges faced in
the farm, including environmental impacts and marked demands. This report
underscores the potential of fish farming as a viable livelihood option and its
contribution to food security, while advocating for best practices that promotes
sustainability and biodiversity in aquaculture.
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INTRODUCTION
Nepal Trout Fish House in Kathmandu is a leading aquaculture venture in Nepal,
significantly contributing to local economy, food security and employment. In recent
years, Nepal Trout Fish House has become a key demand for fish production in
market areas. The farms success in the natural resource, with cold water essential for
trout cultivation, as well as the farms focus on sustainable and innovative farming
technique.
However, the trout farming industry in Kathmandu, including Nepal Trout Fish
House, faces several challenges. These include limited infrastructure; fluctuating
marked prices, and the need for the better access to advanced technology and
infrastructure. Addressing this issue is critical for ensuring the long-term growth and
sustainability of the business, allowing it to fully leverage the potential for aquaculture
and further support food security and economic development.
This report aim is to provide a comprehensive analysis of trout farming in Kathmandu
valley. The goal is to highlight the current state of trout farming in the region while
identifying strategies for overcoming challenges and fostering further development.
4.1 Objective of the study
The objectives to this study is to examination of fish farming in Kathmandu, aiming
to:
 To analysis the production process and technique used at fish farming.
 To identify the key challenges faced by trout farming industries in Kathmandu
District.
 To evaluate the environment sustainability practices employed by the farm.
 To recommend strategies for enhancing productivity, sustainability and market
access for trout farm in Kathmandu.
4.2 Significance of the study
This study contributes to a deeper understanding of aquaculture practices, focusing on
the successful methods and challenges in fish farming. By documenting the flow
through system utilized in a local fish farm, this study provide insight into effective
water management technique that can reduce use while supporting healthy fish
production.
Furthermore, the study highlights local diseases management practices and breeding
strategies, which could serve as a model for other region facing similar aquaculture
challenges. By emphasizing sustainable practices, this research also contributes to the
broader discussion on ecofriendly aquaculture.
Lastly, this study serves as valuable resource for academic and agriculture research by
outlining practical, locally adapted aquaculture strategies, helping to drive forward
both the scientific and socioeconomic aspects of sustainable fish farming.
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MATERIALS AND METHODS

5.1 Study area
The study area was the Kathmandu district of Nepal, a landlock country in South Asia.
Kathmandu, cover an area 50.67km square and had a population of approximately
1,442,271 as of 2024.The district, known for hilly region and best for agriculture and
aquaculture, including the farm of Nepal Trout Fish House.
5.2 Methodology
The methodology for this report are as follow:
1.Primary Data Collection:
Information was gathered through direct interview with the owner of Nepal Trout Fish
House in Kathmandu. The farm owner provides detailed insights into the practices,
challenges, and economic aspect of trout farming. Structured interview was conducted
were owner told about the fish species, farming technique, water management,
production levels and market access.
2.Field Observation:
The study area, including fish facilities and surrounding environment was directly
observed. Key features such as the reservoir, water source and equipment used in
farming were documented. This observation helped in analyzing the physical
conditions necessary for successful trout farming. such as the quality of water,
temperature control mechanism, and the general maintenance of the farm.
3. Secondary Data Analysis:
To complement the information provided by the farm owner and through observation,
secondary data were collected from various documents and publication. This included
research studies, government reports, and industry publication related to fish farming
and aquaculture in Nepal, particularly focusing on Nepal Trout Fish House in
Kathmandu and similar region. These sources provided additional context on trends in
fish production, marked demands and the broader economic and environment impact
of the aquaculture sector.
The combination of interviews, direct observation and secondary data ensured a
comprehensive understanding of the current state of Nepal Trout Fish House in
Kathmandu.
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FINDING AND OBSERVATION

The owner of Nepal Trout Fish House spanning 19,904 square feet, exclusive
cultivating rainbow trout. With many years of experience in fish farming, he has
developed highly efficient system supported by a flow through water system, which
ensure continued 24-hour flow of fresh water. This system maintains water quality by
constantly renewing and filtering water without mechanical or chemical intervention,
an approach beneficial both to fish health and the surrounding ecosystem.
6.1 Breakdown of Trout Life Stage
1.Egg: Before hatching,
2.Alevin: Newly hatched with a yolk sac attached
3. Fry: After the yolk sac is absorbed and the trout starts swimming freely.
4. Fingerling: When the trout grows to around finger length.
5. Juvenile: The transitional stage before reaching full maturity.
6. Adult Trout: A fully mature trout capable of breeding.
6.2 Fish feeding practices
The farm ha a structured feeding regimen that optimizing growth and fish health.
Homemade insect-based mix vegetable and grain mix are some specially formulated
fish feed which provides essential nutrient. The feeding schedule is as following:
 Fingerlings (young trout): fed 5 to 6 times a day to support their rapid
growth.
 Adult trout: Fed 3 times in a daily, which sustain their health and weight gain.
In addition, the farm supplements the fish diet with vitamins once a month, enhancing
their immune response to potential illnesses.
6.3. Breeding and Hatchery Management
Breeding occurs in winter (November to February) when water temperatures are
naturally below 12 C, ideal for trout reproduction. The farm employs artificial
breeding to improve success rates. Male milt is combined with female eggs in a
dedicated breeding tank. Once fertilized, the eggs are stored in an anting, or
incubation unit, for 2 weeks. After this period, dead eggs are separated from healthy
ones. Around 45 days later, larvae develop into fingerlings, which are then transferred
to specialized tubs. Eventually, the fingerlings are moved to reservoirs as they
continue to grow. A hatchery facility ensures a safe and controlled environment for
young trout ( fingerlings) until they are ready to be shifted to larger reservoirs,
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typically in June. The farm supplies the fishes to 10 to 12 farmers, who raised and
distribute in market.
CHALLENGES IN FISH FARMING AND HOW TO OVERCOME THEM

1.Sustainable feed and nutrition

 Challenges: Commercial fish feed can be control and is sometimes
unsustainable, particularly for a small scale farms. overfeeding or low quality
feed may lead to nutrient deficiency or water pollution.
 Solution: Developing organic or homemade feed option using locally available
ingredients, such as plant based proteins, algae, and fishmeal alternative cost
effective and sustainable.
2.Environment and climate challenges
 Challenges: Climate change affects water temperature and rainfall patterns,
which can disrupt aquaculture system reliant on specific condition for
breading and growth
 Solution: Adapt water management strategies by insulting ponds or
reservoirs to maintain consistent temperature. For outdoor farms, protection
barriers and run off management reduce the entry of harmful substance
during heavy rains.
3. Lack of infrastructure
 Challenges: Insufficient infrastructure such as hatcheries, reservoirs, storage,
and transportation facilities, can limits the efficiency and expansion on fish
farming. This is specially true in rural and remote area where access of high
quality equipment.
 Solution: Government and NGO support in the form of subsidies ,grants, and
training program can help fish farmers afford and access necessary
infrastructure .Collective effort like forming cooperative can allows small
farms to poor resources, share technology and build essential facilities.
4. Limited access of markets
 Challenges: Reaching broader or high value market is often difficult due to
logistical barriers , lack of local demands or inadequate processing and packing
facilities. Farmers might struggle to sell directly to consumers making them
reliant on intermediaries, who may offer lower price.
 Solution: Establishing partnership with local markets, restaurants, and
distribution company can help farmers secure stable buyers. Some farmers also
benefits from online market platform or e- commerce partnership, which allow
them to bypass intermediaries and connected directly with consumers.
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5.Shortage of modern farming tools and technologies

 Challenges: Fish farming specialized equipment such as aerators, water quality
monitoring system and feeding automation tools. In many region access of
modern tools and technology is limited due to high cost and due to inadequate
supply chains.
 Solution: Providing training on low cost or locally available tools can help
farmer to adopt more efficient practices. Governments and private sectors
could facilitate access to credit or leasing option for small scale farms to
acquire these tools.
6. Lack of knowledge and technical skills
 Challenges: Fish farming requires specialized knowledge in areas such as fish
health, water management, breeding and feed formulation. Lack of access to
training and education resource can hinder the adaption of best practice,
resulting in lower yields and high disease incidence.
 Solution: Providing regular workshop, extension services and access to online
resources can equip farmers with the necessary skill. Creating training program
in rural and cities areas to enhance technical knowledge in fish farming
standards.
7. Fluctuating marked prices
 Challenges: Fish farmers often face unpredictable fluctuation in marked price
due to seasonal demands, competition and changing consumer preferences.
High supply or economic downturns can result in oversupply, reducing the
price farmers receive for their products. Conversely, when price increases,
input costs like feed and equipment often rise, affecting profit margins.
 Solution: To address fluctuating marked price, fish farmers can diversify their
product, establish contracts with reliable buyers, develop value added product
like smoked or canned fish and join cooperative for better price stability.

RESULT
Trout fish farming in Kathmandu and other parts of Nepal has shown promising result
due to the country favorable climate condition and the increasing demands of trout in
the market. The cool and clean water in Kathmandu Valley, especially in hilly areas,
provide suitable for trout farming. Overall, trout farming in Kathmandu is growing
steadily, with significant potential for expansion if the challenges like infrastructure
and knowledge gaps are addressed.
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CONCLUSION
The visit to the trout farm provided a valuable insight into the intricacies of fish
farming. With the flow through water system, targeted feeding schedule and
systematic diseases prevention practices, the farm has created a model that support
both economic and environmental goals. The farms dedicated hatchery and breeding
practices further enhance efficiency, ensuring a reliable supply of healthy trout to the
market. These sustainable practices not only support the farms long- term success but
also contribute to a healthier environment for future generation of fish farmers in the
region. Overall, this trout farm is a excellent model of how sustainable fish farming
can be achieved with careful planning and resource management.

REFERENCES
 Interview with owner of Nepal trout fish house
 Nilavet al (2020),Microbial pathogens in recirculating aquaculture system.
Innovating farming,5(1), 17-21
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PHOTO PLATES