Biochemical analysis of commonly consumed fishes and shell fishes from the Tista and the Baral River in Bangladesh

The Tista and Baral rivers in Bangladesh are important water bodies that provide fish and shellfish as a significant food source for the local population. However, there is limited research on the biochemical composition of commonly consumed fish and shellfish species from these rivers. This study aimed to analyze the proximate composition of 16 species of fish and shellfish from the Tista and Baral rivers, focusing on their nutritional profiles and potential as protein sources. The findings indicate that all 16 species from the two rivers contain significant levels of moisture, ash, crude fat, crude protein, crude fiber, carbohydrate, and energy content, with percentages ranging from (82.18±0.29 to 62.79±0.67)%, (28.77±0.08 to 6.6±0.07)%, (38.16±0.16 to 6.39±0.04)%, (70.69±1.30 to 36.81±0.82)%, (18.30±0.07 to 0.46±0.03)%, (21.41±0.08 to 1.37±0.01)%, and (319±0.44 to 532.45±0.45) kcal/100 g, respectively. Anabas testudineus and Barilius barila from the Tista and Baral rivers, respectively, contained significantly (p<0.05) higher levels of fat and energy content than those of other species. Paratelphusa lamellifrons from Tista river showed significantly (p<0.05) higher ash content compared to others. Mastacembelus pancalus from the Baral River showed the highest moisture and carbohydrate content, which differ significantly (p<0.05) compared to others in the case of carbohydrate content and differ significantly (p<0.05) compared to others except Ompok pabda in the case of moisture content. Ompok pabda from the Baral River showed significantly (p<0.05) higher protein and fiber content compared to others. The study concludes that commonly consumed fish and shellfish are moderate sources of high-quality protein and essential micronutrients. Thus, their consumption can mitigate protein malnutrition and ensure the security of nutrition and livelihoods in Bangladesh. The results emphasize the nutritional significance of these resources as potential protein sources, warranting further exploration and utilization to address nutritional challenges and enhance food security in the region.