Top Profitable Aquaculture Species by State in India for 2025

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Aquaculture in India is evolving rapidly, driven by rising demand for seafood and government support for sustainable farming. Different states have unique environmental conditions and market access, which influence the choice of species that farmers cultivate. Knowing which species are most profitable in each state can help farmers, investors, and policymakers make informed decisions. This post explores the top aquaculture species by state in India for 2025, highlighting key trends and opportunities.

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: The Shrimp Powerhouses

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana lead India’s shrimp production, especially the Pacific white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei). These states benefit from extensive coastal lines and favorable climatic conditions. Shrimp farming here is highly profitable due to strong export demand, particularly from the US and Southeast Asia.

• Pacific white shrimp dominates due to its fast growth and high market value.

• Farmers use intensive and semi-intensive farming methods to maximize yield.

• Government schemes support infrastructure and disease management, improving productivity.

  
  

In addition to shrimp, freshwater fish like rohu and catla are also farmed in inland areas, but shrimp remains the top earner.

West Bengal and Odisha: Carp and Hilsa Focus

West Bengal and Odisha have rich river systems and estuaries, supporting diverse aquaculture species. The most profitable species here include:

• Indian major carps such as rohu, catla, and mrigal. These species thrive in freshwater ponds and are staples in local diets.

• Hilsa shad (Tenualosa ilisha), a prized fish with high market demand, especially in West Bengal. Hilsa farming and conservation efforts are growing to meet demand.

  
  

Carp farming benefits from traditional knowledge and government extension services, making it a reliable income source for many farmers.

Tamil Nadu and Kerala: Mixed Species with Emphasis on Prawns

Tamil Nadu and Kerala have a mix of coastal and inland aquaculture. The profitable species include:

• Tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon) and Pacific white shrimp along the coast.

• Freshwater prawns (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) in inland ponds.

• Tilapia is gaining popularity due to its fast growth and adaptability.

  
  

Kerala’s backwaters provide ideal conditions for prawn farming, while Tamil Nadu’s diverse water bodies support multiple species. Both states have growing export markets and domestic demand.

Gujarat and Maharashtra: Focus on Shrimp and Mussels

Gujarat and Maharashtra have expanding aquaculture sectors focusing on:

• Pacific white shrimp farming in coastal areas.

• Green mussels (Perna viridis), especially in Maharashtra, where mussel farming is profitable due to local demand and export potential.

  
  

These states benefit from good infrastructure and proximity to major ports, facilitating seafood exports.

Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh: Carp and Catfish Farming

In northern states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, freshwater aquaculture dominates. The top species include:

• Indian major carps (rohu, catla, mrigal).

• Catfish (Clarias batrachus), which is popular for its fast growth and tolerance to varied conditions.

  
  

These states focus on pond and tank culture, supported by government programs promoting fish farming as a supplementary income source for farmers.

Assam and Northeast States: Indigenous Species and Carp

The Northeast region has unique aquaculture practices with emphasis on indigenous species and carps:

• Indian major carps remain popular.

• Indigenous species like walking catfish (Clarias batrachus) and pangasius are farmed.

• The region is exploring cold-water species like trout in hill streams.

  
  

Aquaculture here supports local livelihoods and food security, with growing interest in commercial farming.

Karnataka and Goa: Shrimp and Freshwater Fish

Karnataka and Goa have coastal and inland aquaculture with profitable species such as:

• Pacific white shrimp along the coast.

• Freshwater carps and tilapia in inland ponds.

  
  

Both states have potential for expanding aquaculture due to favorable climate and government support.

Key Factors Driving Profitability

Several factors influence the profitability of aquaculture species across Indian states:

• Environmental suitability: Species must match water quality, temperature, and salinity.

• Market demand: Export markets and local consumption patterns shape species choice.

• Government support: Subsidies, training, and infrastructure improve yields and reduce risks.

• Disease management: Effective control of diseases like White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) in shrimp is critical.

• Technology adoption: Use of improved feed, aeration, and breeding techniques boosts productivity.

  
  

Opportunities for Farmers and Investors

• Farmers should select species based on local conditions and market trends.

• Diversification into high-value species like shrimp and freshwater prawns can increase income.

• Investors can explore integrated farming systems combining fish with agriculture or livestock.

• Emphasis on sustainable practices will ensure long-term profitability and environmental health.

  
  

Summary