Ethno-Zoology and Nutritional Value of Endemic Fauna in North East India

 

        Ethno-Zoology and Nutritional Value of Endemic Fauna in North East India

Introduction

North East India, a global biodiversity hotspot, is characterized by a wide variety of endemic fauna that serves as a vital nutritional resource for its diverse ethnic communities. The consumption of aquatic and terrestrial animals is deeply rooted in the region's socio-cultural and economic framework.

1. Endemic Fishes

The region is a major hub for ichthyofaunal diversity, with fish serving as a primary protein source.

●       Distribution: Found across the Brahmaputra and Barak river systems, as well as the hilly terrains of Manipur, Nagaland, and Meghalaya.

●       Groups & Species:

○       Carps & Minnows: Species like Labeo gonius (Kurhi) and Amblypharyngodon mola (Mola) are widely distributed.

○       Shads & Barbs: Including Puntius species (Puthi).

○       Murrels & Eels: Channa species (Shol/Garoa) and Mastacembelus armatus (Bami).

○       Catfishes: Clarias magur (Magur) and Heteropneustes fossilis (Singi).

○       Perches & Trouts: Local varieties adapted to cold-water streams in higher altitudes.

●       Parts Used & Method of Use: The whole body is typically consumed. Methods include fresh curries, smoking, sun-drying, and unique fermentation processes like Shidhal or Sukuti.

●       Nutritive Value: High-quality protein, essential fatty acids (Omega-3), and rich in micronutrients like Vitamin A, Iron, and Calcium.

2. Crustaceans and Molluscs

●       Distribution: Abundant in wetlands (Beels), paddy fields, and river banks throughout Assam and Manipur.

●       Species: Freshwater crabs (Sartoriana spinigera), prawns, and various snails (Pila globosa).

●       Method of Use: Crabs and prawns are roasted or cooked with traditional herbs. Snails are boiled, and the meat is extracted from the shell, often cooked with bamboo shoots or pulses.

●       Nutritive Value: Excellent sources of lean protein and minerals, particularly Calcium and Phosphorus.

3. Edible Reptiles (Snakes and Lizards)

In specific tribal communities, certain reptiles are consumed for both nutrition and perceived medicinal benefits.

●       Distribution: Primarily in the forested regions of Nagaland, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh.

●       Parts Used: Flesh/muscle tissue.

●       Method of Use: Usually roasted over an open fire or stewed with local spices.

●       Nutritive Value: High protein content with low fat; traditionally believed to cure ailments like asthma or skin diseases.

4. Social Insects (Bees, Wasps, and Ants)

Entomophagy (insect eating) is a significant traditional practice in the North East.

●       Distribution: Common in rural and forested areas of Assam, Nagaland, and Manipur.

●       Groups:

○       Bees and Wasps: Larvae and pupae are highly prized.

○       Ants: Specifically, the Weaver Ant (Oecophylla smaragdina), known as Amroli Poruwa in Assam.

●       Method of Use:

○       Ants: Eggs and adults are used to make chutneys or stir-fried, especially during the Rongali Bihu festival in Assam.

○       Wasps: Nests are harvested to extract larvae, which are fried or steamed.

●       Nutritive Value: Insects are "superfoods," containing high concentrations of protein, fats (unsaturated), and minerals like Zinc and Magnesium.

References

Nongdam, P. (2014). The nutritional facts of bamboo shoots and their usage as important traditional foods of Northeast India. ISRN Pharmacy, 2014, 679073. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/679073

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Sharma, D., Porasar, P., Bharadwaj, A., Bora, N. S., Gam, S., Dua, T. K., Sahariah, B. J., & Dutta, K. N. (2026). Houttuynia cordata—A review on exploring its diverse phytochemical and therapeutic potential and unveiling ethnobotanical insights into its traditional and nutritional uses. Current Traditional Medicine, 4(e2210299X406292).