Mehrab Emon, 28, a youth from Patuakhali town, began rearing ornamental fish as a hobby in 2021.
That hobby has since turned his wheel of fortune, earning him success in farming different fish varieties commercially.
Emon now earns over Tk 1 lakh a month from his thriving venture, while inspiring others in the region to follow similar pursuits.
He has set up a stall showcasing his farm-raised ornamental fish at the ongoing 10-day Entrepreneurs' Fair, organised by BSCIC at the DC Square field in Patuakhali town from November 7.
Abul Hasan, a resident of Sabujbagh area in Patuakhali town, said, "I have bought fish from Emon's farm before. Compared to fish from other farms which often die quickly, his fish are of better quality and survive much longer."
In January 2021, Emon started breeding colourful Fighting Fish (Betta) out of passion. A year later, he expanded it into a commercial venture on five kathas of fallow land at his ancestral home near Bot-tola Mosque in Patuakhali town.
"I first saw these vibrant fish at my sister's home in Dhaka. My brother-in-law used to import them. I was fascinated by their colours and decided to learn how to breed them myself. At first, it was challenging -- I lost many fish -- but I never gave up," he said.
Through online research and months of trial and error, Emon mastered the breeding process. His farm now holds over 7,000 bottled and jarred fish, with a production capacity of 20,000. Each month, he spends about Tk 10,000–12,000 on feed.
Emon currently breeds a range of varieties including Fighting Fish, Moon Tail, Rose Tail, Feather Tail, and Halfmoon.
From the moment eggs hatch, it takes about four months for the fish to reach marketable size. Depending on size and breed, he sells a pair for Tk 500–1,500, while bulk sales of 100 fish fetch Tk 12,000–13,000. Orders are processed online and delivered nationwide via courier service.
He also produces zero-size fry through in-house breeding. His entire setup -- two rooms in his homeyard filled with aquariums -- has turned into a vibrant showcase of colour and life.
"I plan to expand my farm and create employment opportunities for local youth," Emon said.
Emon was awarded during National Fisheries Week 2022 in Patuakhali and again at the national level in Dhaka this year for his contribution to ornamental fish farming.
Dr Rajib Sarkar, professor of Fisheries Biology and Genetics at Patuakhali Science and Technology University, said, "Many young people are now pursuing the ornamental fish business successfully. Emon's initiative shows how innovation and persistence can turn a hobby into a profession."
Md Kamrul Islam, district fisheries officer in Patuakhali, said they would provide all necessary support, including advanced training, to expand the trade of ornamental fish.