Nutrition-Sensitive Carp-Mola Polyculture for Improved Livelihoods and Wellbeing: Lessons from India

Abstract

The integration of the nutrient-rich indigenous small fish, mola (Amblypharyngodon mola), with conventional carp farming in a form of nutrition-sensitive aquaculture presents a transformative approach to enhancing food and nutrition security, diversifying income, and promoting sustainable aquaculture, thus supporting livelihoods in rural communities (1). This polyculture system leverages the high nutritional value of mola, which is rich in essential micronutrients such as calcium, iron, vitamin A, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a valuable addition to the diets of populations suffering from micronutrient deficiencies. The mola is a surface-dwelling fish, predominantly feeding on phytoplankton. Remarkably prolific, the mola reaches sexual maturity at just 3 months of age. The success of a carp-mola polyculture system depends on improved pond management practices, including pre-stocking, stocking, post-stocking, and harvesting strategies. These practices aim to optimize pond conditions, stocking densities, and feeding regimes to enhance mola yields while maintaining a healthy pond environment.