Ghol fish that turns fishermen millionaires overnight

The auction of three fish for Rs 2.25 lakh at the Neendakara fishing harbour might have puzzled many since the Ghol fish which have the least possibility of getting trapped in the fishermen's net were caught and later brought to sale in the market. 

The Ghol fish, also commonly known as the ‘Sea Gold’ is found in the coastal regions of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Odisha. They have a high demand in countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Japan. Ghol fish is the highest-priced sea fish in the world and its cost is determined according to its size and weight.

What makes Ghol fish the most expensive fish?

The thread used in many surgeries, including that of the heart has been made from the bladder found in the stomach of the Ghol fish. It is also considered that the fish can be used to improve immunity, sexual potency and remove kidney stones. Ghol fish is the source of iodine, Omega-3, iron, magnesium, fluoride and selenium. 

The vitamins, minerals and fats obtained from the Ghol fish can enhance vision and muscular functioning. Collagen comprised in the fats of the fish helps to minimise the wrinkles in the skin and hence, the consumption of Ghol fish improves skin health. Regular consumption of Ghol fish can develop brain cells and brain capacity in children. The Omega-3 in the fish aids in this. 

The male fish is more expensive than the female. The market price for the male fish weighing 30 kilograms will cost Rs 4 to 5 lakh while the female fish costs Rs 1 to 2 lakh. 

Another internal organ of the fish, bhot, also has a very high demand. It costs Rs 5- 6 lakh in Satpati in Mumbai. However, its meat costs only Rs 500 to 600 in the market. It is also used for wine purification and producing cosmetic products.

A fisherman in Maharashtra Chandrakanbt Tare had earned Rs 1.33 crore by selling 157 Ghol fish that he caught in September 2021. One week back, another fisherman in Alappuzha received Rs 59,000 by selling 20.6 kilograms of the same fish.