If you’ve ever wandered through a fish market in Pakistan or browsed an aquarium shop, chances are you’ve come across the rohu fish. Known for its adaptability and calm nature, rohu is more than just a favorite in local cuisine—it’s also becoming a popular choice among hobbyists and small-scale fish farmers alike.
This freshwater species is widely available, affordable, and surprisingly easy to care for, making it ideal for both beginners and those looking to raise fish at home.
In this post, we’ll explore why rohu fish is such a popular choice, how to care for it, and what makes it a rewarding species for both beginners and experienced fish keepers.
About Rohu Fish
Rohu is a freshwater fish native to South Asia, especially common in the rivers of Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. It belongs to the carp family and is one of the major species used in aquaculture.
- Scientific name: Labeo rohita
- Common name in Pakistan: Rohu
- Habitat: Slow-moving rivers, ponds, and large tanks
- Size: Can grow up to 1 meter in length
- Diet: Omnivorous — feeds on algae, insects, and plant matter
Why Rohu Is Great for Fish Keeping
1. Hardy and Easy to Care For
2. Peaceful Temperament
3. Economical and Widely Available
Ideal Aquarium Setup for Rohu
If you’re planning to keep rohu in a home setup, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Tank size: Minimum 200 liters for juveniles; ponds recommended for adults
- Water temperature: 20–28°C
- pH level: Neutral to slightly alkaline (6.5–8.0)
- Filtration: Strong biological filter
- Tank mates: Other large, non-aggressive freshwater fish
Tip: Consider adding floating plants to provide shade and reduce stress for your rohu.
What Do Rohu Eat?
In the wild and in fish farms, rohu are known to eat plankton, algae, and organic detritus. For home care:
- Feed: Floating pellets, boiled vegetables, spinach, and earthworms
- Frequency: 2–3 times per day in small amounts
- Avoid: Overfeeding, which leads to ammonia build-up and cloudy water
In small tanks, floating pellets are commonly used, but sinking feed may be more suitable in ponds or deeper setups. This guide offers a simple comparison to help you choose what’s best for your fish.
Feeding and Daily Care
Rohu isn’t a picky eater. In the wild, it grazes on plankton, algae, and decaying plant matter. At home, you can feed it floating pellets, bits of boiled spinach or peas, even the occasional earthworm. Just don’t overdo it — leftover food can cloud the water and create health issues. Feeding two to three times a day, in small amounts, usually works best.
In ponds, some people prefer sinking feed or bran-based mash, especially if they’re raising multiple fish together. It’s less wasteful and helps ensure the food reaches them, even when they’re deeper down
Common Health Concerns
Though hardy, rohu can still fall ill under poor water conditions. Watch for signs like:
- Loss of appetite
- Erratic swimming
- Visible white patches or fungus
These may indicate common issues like ich or fungal infections. Quarantine and regular water testing help prevent outbreaks.
Daily Observation Matters
Even with low-maintenance species like rohu, spending a few minutes each day observing your fish can make a big difference. Watch how they swim, how actively they feed, and whether any individuals separate themselves from the group.
Small changes in behavior are often the first signs of stress or illness. By catching problems early, you can avoid bigger issues down the line. A simple routine of checking water clarity, feeding response, and fish activity helps ensure your rohu stay healthy and your setup remains trouble-free.
Seasonal Care
Pakistan’s weather can be unpredictable, especially during peak summer and winter. Rohu can handle a bit of fluctuation, but there are still a few things to keep in mind. In summer, keeping the water shaded and cool is important — especially in ponds. In winter, feeding should slow down, since the fish’s metabolism naturally decreases in colder water. Some hobbyists stop feeding altogether when the water dips below 18°C.
Simple seasonal adjustments can go a long way in keeping your fish healthy throughout the year.
Compatible Tank Mates
Rohu can live peacefully with other freshwater fish like catla, mrigal, or grass carp. It’s best to avoid pairing it with small ornamental species, as rohu grows quickly and may unintentionally outcompete them for food.
Always monitor tank dynamics if introducing new fish. Maintain good space and feeding balance to avoid stress or competition.
Rohu as a Practical Choice for Small Farms
For many families, especially in rural areas, rohu is more than just a fish, it’s a source of food and income. Raising rohu doesn’t require expensive tools or advanced knowledge. A simple pond and regular care are enough.
Some households raise a few fish for their own use, while others sell surplus to neighbors or local markets. It’s an easy way to turn a backyard into something productive. The low cost, low risk, and steady demand make rohu ideal for small-scale fish farming.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re keeping rohu as a hobby, for educational reasons, or as part of a home aquaculture setup, it offers a unique mix of practicality and tradition. Rohu is:
- Easy to care for
- Affordable and accessible
- Peaceful and compatible with other fish
- A great introduction to fish keeping in Pakistan
If you’re just getting started or looking to expand your setup, rohu is a reliable and rewarding choice.
Whether you’re keeping rohu for ornamental reasons, as part of a small aquaculture setup, or simply because you love fish, rohu offers a mix of hardiness, beauty, and cultural familiarity. It’s easy to care for, widely available, and a great introduction to freshwater fish keeping in Pakistan.
