Kulgam, July 9: Amid the ongoing heatwave, thousands of fish were found dead at a local fish farm in Kilam area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. According to AD Fisheries, the mass fish mortality occurred due to a severe deficiency of dissolved oxygen in the water.
Assistant Director (AD) Fisheries Kulgam, Shabir Ahmad, said the scientific reasons behind the tragedy and issued crucial advisories to farm owners in the region.
“When we move from Kilam towards Qaimoh, the temperature of water rises significantly. As water gets heated, its ability to retain gases—especially oxygen—declines. This directly reduces the level of dissolved oxygen essential for the survival of fish,” said AD Fisheries Shabir Ahmad.
He further pointed out that the water used in these fish farms is often highly polluted. “The presence of weeds and other pollutants drastically lowers oxygen levels. Another critical factor is the decomposition of tree leaves and weeds in the water, which releases carbon dioxide and consumes dissolved oxygen during the decomposition process,” he added.
To avoid such incidents in the future, AD Fisheries recommended several measures for fish farm owners, especially those operating in warmer zones. “He advise to go through carp culture—like grass carp, silver carp, and common carp—which are more adaptable and require less oxygen compared to trout. Carps have a better respiratory system for warm, low-oxygen environments,” he said.
However, for those continuing with trout culture, he suggested using water sources entering the farm from higher altitudes and in a dispersed manner, to help dissolve more oxygen.
Other important tips he include: Reducing the quantity of fish feed, especially during the day. “Feed should be given early in the morning to reduce oxygen usage during hotter hours,” said Shabir Ahmad.
Daily cleaning of water and ensuring that carbon dioxide levels are minimized through better water management practices, minimize the loss; He Added
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