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Abstract
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Indigenous small fsh (ISF) species, along with other fsh, are abundantly found in various natural resources such as beels, foodplains, open water ponds, ditches, rivers, canals, and rice felds. In rural communities, ISF have been traditionally consumed due to their availability and nutritional richness. These fsh species, reaching a length of approximately 25 cm or 6 inches, offer high nutritional value as they are commonly consumed whole, including the head, bones, and eyes, ensuring the utilization of all available nutrients, including micronutrients. ISF are valued for their high protein, fatty acid, vitamin, and mineral content. The proximate composition analysis of ISF, including moisture, protein, fat, and ash contents, reveals that these constituents constitute a signifcant portion (96–98%) of the total composition of the fsh body. This chapter aims to highlight the importance of ISF, their nutritional value, and consumption patterns, providing insights for consumers to make informed decisions based on their dietary requirements
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