Ayirai Meen may soon be declared the state fish of Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Fisheries University(TNFU) is in talks with the Director Fisheries about the various formalities in this regard. They are positive that the “Ayirai Meen” or “loach” will soon be get the official recognition it deserves.

Until now this fish has been known only as a very expensive delicacy that is featured in gourmet palate. The fish is priced anywhere between Rs. 1200 to Rs. 1400 in the market. Owing to its huge commercial value, TNFU has done a lot of research and development going into its cultivation. They have successfully raised Ayirai in pond culture. They can be raised in ponds , lakes and rivers too.

The fish is also known for its high nutritive value. Since the fish is usually eaten with the bone, it provides for more calcium than the other fish varieties. The high nutritive value and huge market demand has prompted the fisheries department to further activities of research in its cultivation to meet the demand.