Small Indigenous Fish: A Potential Source of Valuable Nutrients in the Context of Bangladesh

Abstract

Peoples can readily and affordably obtain small indigenous fish species (SIS), with a maximum length of 25 cm, that can be found in niches in small bodies of water (such as canals, ponds, wetlands, streams, etc.). SIS contribute valuable and significant macro- and micronutrients in Bangladesh. SIS are excellent suppliers of vitamins and minerals. The main micronutrients are copper, iodine, iron, selenium, chromium, and zinc, which can help prevent mineral deficiency and enzymatic response in the human body. SIS, such as the mola (Amblypharyngodon mola), cotio (Osteobrama cotio), darkina (Esomus danricus), etc., are easily digestible by the human gut. Nutrients of these fish are quickly accessible by the intestine. These fish are comparatively cheap and easy to capture and promote the presence of particular vitamins in SIS, including A, D, E, and K, as well as vitamin B components. This review paper focuses on the SIS nutritional contribution and their efficacy of preventing malnutrition in developing countries such as Bangladesh and the whole world.