Tenualosa ilisha facts for kids

A Hilsa fish, also known as Ilish.

The Hilsa fish (scientific name: Tenualosa ilisha) is a very important type of fish. It belongs to the Clupeidae family, which includes herring fish.

This fish is a very popular food in parts of South India, East India, and especially in Bangladesh. It is so important that it is the National fish of Bangladesh!

The Hilsa fish helps Bangladesh's economy a lot. It makes up about 12% of all the fish caught in the country. It also adds about 1% to the country's total GDP (which is the total money a country earns). Many people depend on this fish for their jobs. About 450,000 people work directly catching Hilsa. Millions more are involved in selling and trading it.

The Hilsa fish has many other names depending on the region. Some of these names include palla fish, hilsha, ellis, and ilish. In Bengali, it's called ইলিশ (ilish). In Oriya, it's ଇଲିଶି (ilishii). In the Sindhi language, it's پلو مڇي (pallu machhi). In Telugu, it's called pulasa or polasa.

What is Hilsa Fish?

The Hilsa fish is a type of herring. Herrings are known for traveling in large groups. They are also famous for their oily, flavorful meat. Hilsa fish are found in the waters of the Bay of Bengal and other nearby areas.

Where Hilsa Fish Live

Hilsa fish live in both saltwater and freshwater. They spend most of their lives in the ocean. However, when it's time to lay their eggs, they swim up into rivers. This journey is called a migration. They travel to rivers like the Padma River and Meghna River in Bangladesh. They also go to rivers in India, such as the Ganges River and Godavari River.

Hilsa Fish Appearance

Hilsa fish have a silvery body. They are quite flat and have a pointed head. They can grow to be about 50 centimeters (about 20 inches) long. They are known for their many small bones, which can be tricky to eat around!

Hilsa Fish in Culture and Food

The Hilsa fish is more than just food; it's a big part of the culture in Bangladesh and some parts of India. People love its unique taste.

Popular Hilsa Dishes

There are many traditional dishes made with Hilsa fish. People prepare it in different ways. Some common ways to cook Hilsa include:

• Fried Hilsa: Simple and delicious, often served with rice.
• Steamed Hilsa: Cooked with spices and sometimes mustard paste.
• Hilsa Curry: Made with different sauces, often with mustard or coconut.
• Smoked Hilsa: This gives the fish a special flavor.

The eggs of the Hilsa fish, called roe, are also a popular food. They are often made into a curry or fried.

Hilsa and Festivals

Hilsa fish is often a special dish during festivals and celebrations. For example, during the Bengali New Year (Pohela Boishakh), many families enjoy Hilsa. It is a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

Protecting Hilsa Fish

Because Hilsa fish are so important, people are working to protect them. Overfishing can be a problem, meaning too many fish are caught. This can reduce the number of fish for the future.

Conservation Efforts

Governments and scientists are working together to make sure there are enough Hilsa fish for everyone. They do this by:

• Setting rules for when and where Hilsa can be caught.
• Creating special areas where fish can lay their eggs safely.
• Teaching fishermen about sustainable fishing methods.

These efforts help to keep the Hilsa population healthy. This way, future generations can also enjoy this special fish.

Images for kids

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  Doi Ilish

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  Ilish of Bangladesh

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  Hilsha roe plays an important role in Bengali cuisine.

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  Shorshe Ilish, a dish of smoked ilish with mustard seeds, has been an important part of Bengali cuisine.