Small Fish: An Untapped Opportunity for Improving Nutrition (GAIN Working Paper No. 61)

By:
Maulana Firdaus; Ibnu Budiman; Eristyana Yunindio Sari; Michelle Nova Lauwrhetta
Date:
2026

This working paper explores the nutritional, environmental, and economic potential of small freshwater fish species in Indonesia. It finds that species such as Wader, Nilem, and Sepat Siam are nutrient-dense, environmentally efficient, and financially viable for small-scale aquaculture, with Wader offering the highest profitability. The paper provides supply chain analysis and practical recommendations to scale sustainable production and improve food security.