Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: IE
Context: The Gujarat government recently declared the ghol as the state fish, citing its economic value and uniqueness.
| Ghol Fish | Details | |
| About Ghol Fish | The Ghol fish is a rare and expensive marine species found in the Indo-Pacific region (from the Persian Gulf to the Pacific Ocean), primarily in the marine areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra in India | |
| Nutrients | It is loaded with rich nutrients such as iodine, omega-3, DHA, EPA, iron, taurine, magnesium, fluoride, and selenium. |  |
| Length | Around one-and-a-half meters. Price increases with length, reaching up to Rs 5 lakh per unit length. | |
| In India | One of the largest fish found in India, primarily in marine areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra. Often referred to as ‘Sea Gold.’ (or known as the “fisherman’s lottery“)Recognized for a pouch in its stomach with potent medicinal properties. | |
| Benefits | Good for eye health, and contains vitamins and minerals. Prevents ageing and wrinkles due to collagen content. Improves infant IQ with Omega-3, stimulating brain cell growth. | |
| Economic Value | Demand for both meat and air bladder. Used in beer and winemaking. Air bladder has pharmaceutical applications. Highly valued in overseas markets, especially China. | |
