Fish species used for drying in Sylhet Division

Abstract

A year-long survey was conducted on fish species used and fish drying activities of
greater Sylhet. Data were collected from four upazilas under three districts of Sylhet division
namely Sylhet, Moulvibazar and Habiganj. The study revealed that fish drying methods were
traditional, undeveloped and unhygienic. A total of 21 freshwater fish species under 12 families
and 1 prawn species were identified that were used for sun drying in the study areas 82% of
which were small fish. Drying of larger fishes was not common due to the scarcity and high price
of raw materials. It was also observed that fishes from Cyprinidae (18%), Bagridae (18%) and
Channidae (14%) family were more abundant in the study areas because of the fish availability,
price of the fish, easiness of drying and consumer demand. The study revealed that the supply of
fish has been decreased over the years which may impact the viability of their business. On the
basis of the findings, a number of recommendations have been suggested including training for
the people involved in fish drying, value chain, proper institutional and governmental support to
thoroughly monitor a number of key species in major ecosystems and locations over successive
years.