Focus of Research :
- Development and standardization of innovative mariculture technologies
- Advanced research in fish biology, reproductive physiology, and captive breeding
- Conservation-oriented and sustainable mariculture practices
- Technology dissemination, extension, and capacity building
- Standardization and promotion of seaweed farming methods
Background :
I commenced my professional career with the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in February 2009 as a Scientist at the ICAR–Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA), Bhubaneswar. Over the past seventeen years, this journey has provided me with valuable opportunities to acquire extensive research and field experience in both freshwater aquaculture and mariculture. During this period, I have developed core expertise in fish biology, breeding technologies, and farm management strategies.
In the early phase of my career at CIFA, I was actively involved in research and development activities related to the culture of food fishes and ornamental fishes. My work included studies on breeding biology, refinement of seed production techniques, and standardization of culture practices for both indigenous and exotic ornamental fish species. One of the most rewarding aspects of my tenure was serving as the lead member in the development and standardization of breeding techniques for the endangered indigenous ornamental fish Dawkinsia tambraparniei. This contribution played a significant role in its conservation and successful captive propagation.
As my career progressed, my research interests gradually expanded towards mariculture. At present, I am serving at ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi, where my work focuses on the development and refinement of innovative mariculture technologies, including seaweed farming and advanced breeding strategies for finfishes and shellfishes. My areas of specialization include induced breeding using hormonal and chemical agents, broodstock management, and the establishment of sustainable seed production systems.
By integrating scientific innovation with practical field applications, I strive to develop holistic and environmentally sustainable solutions. My broader objective is to enhance fish production, promote conservation-oriented mariculture practices, and contribute to ecosystem restoration and responsible marine resource management
Education :
- Ph.D. Aquaculture, 2022, ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai.
- MFSc Mariculture, 2006, ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai.
- BFSc 2004, Kerala Agricultural University, College of Fisheries, Kochi.
Current Research Projects :
No | Title | Funded By |
1 | Captive breeding and seed production of important finfishes, shellfishes and other invertebrates for sustainable mariculture, fisheries enhancement, and conservation | ICAR-CMFRI |
2 | Socio-Economic Impact Evaluation of Mariculture Technology Interventions | ICAR-CMFRI |
3 | Evaluation of crowding and transportation stress in selected mariculture species and development of stress management strategies | ICAR-CMFRI |
4 | All India Network Project on Mariculture | ICAR-CMFRI |
5 | Network project on ornamental fish breeding and culture | ICAR-CMFRI |
Publications:
- Rajesh, N., Suresh Babu, P. P. Shilta, M. T., Anuraj, A., Anikuttan, K. K., Padua, Shelton and Ignatius, Boby. 2025 Evidence of occurrence of intersex in Indo-Pacific sergeant, Abudefduf vaigiensis. Journal of Marine Biological Association of India, 67 (1). pp. 110-115. ISSN 2321-7898
- Suresh Babu, P. P., Shilta, M. T., Anuraj, A., Rajesh, N., Hussain, Tanveer Pal, Mahendra., Dube, Praveen and Ignatius, Boby. 2025. Oocyte degeneration and post- ovulatory developments in the ovary of captive broodstock of black seabream, Acanthopagrus berda. Journal of Marine Biological Association of India, 67 (1). pp. 38-44. ISSN 2321-7898
- Rajesh, N., Imelda, Joseph, Chadha, N. K., Ignatius, Boby, Suresh Babu, P. P., Anikuttan, K. K., Anuraj, A., Sawant, Paramita Banerjee and Babitha Rani, A. M. 2024 Biological aspects of the Indo-Pacific sergeant Abudefduf vaigiensis (Quoy and Gaimard, 1825) from Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu, India. Indian Journal of Fisheries, 71 (2). pp. 139-144. ISSN 0970 – 6011.
- Ramachandran, C., Shinoj, P., Gills, Reshma, Anuja, A. R., Padua, Shelton, Ratheesh Kumar, R., and Rajesh, N. 2023. Ecosystem services of coastal wetlands for climate change mitigation: an economic analysis of Pokkali and Kaipad-based rotational paddy farming systems in India. Current Science, 125 (5). pp. 156-164. ISSN 0011-3891
- Rajesh, N., Imelda, Joseph, Chadha, N. K., Ignatius, Boby, Sukumaran, Sandhya, Suresh Babu, P. P., Anuraj, A., Sawant, Paramita Banerjee and Babitha Rani, A. M. 2022. Genetic identity and length-weight relationships of Indo-Pacific sergeant Abudefduf vaigiensis (Quoy and Gaimard, 1825) from the south-east coast of India. Indian Journal of Fisheries, 69 (1). pp. 97-104.
