Proximate and Mineral Composition of Magur (Clarias batrachus) and Singhi (Heteropneustes fossilis)

Indian catfish namely magur (Clarias batrachus) and singhi (Heteropneustes fossilis) were collected and analysed for proximate composition and mineral content. The samples were categorised into three different seasons viz., January-April, May-August and September-December and two different weight groups viz., small (10–50 g) and big (52–150 g). Protein, fat and ash content were similar in magur irrespective of size and season and the values were higher (P<0.05) in small fish during May-August. The proximate composition was similar in singhi irrespective of their size and season. In magur, the mineral content was higher (P<0.05) in small fish during May-August and lower during other seasons and it was similar irrespective of their size. In singhi, irrespective of their size, the content of most of the minerals were higher (P<0.05) during September-December. However, during other seasons, the values were comparable in both size groups. Thus, it may be concluded that Indian catfishes (magur and singhi) are rich in protein, fat and minerals content irrespective of their size and season.