Marine fish diversity and nutritional insights from the East Coast of India

Abstract Background The investigation of marine fish biodiversity has become fundamental for a reliable database supporting the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. The east coast regions of India are found suitable for a diverse range of marine fish species. Understanding this biodiversity is necessary for both biological conservation and economic development. The objective of this present study is to assess the marine fish diversity and their nutritional insights across different zones of the east coast of India. Methods This review synthesizes information from various review and research papers regarding marine fish diversity and nutritional profiling of coastal regions in India. This analysis aimed to explore the evolution of scientific understanding and identify key contributors to the field of marine fish diversity. Results The eastern coastline of India, stretching from West Bengal to Tamil Nadu, hosts a diverse range of marine fish species due to its diverse climatic conditions, habitats, and ecological zones. This region is rich with commercially important species such as Indian mackerel, ribbonfish, tuna, snappers, sparidae, carangidae, pomacentridae, and clupeidae. Fish resources are a vital source of macronutrients and micronutrients. A total of 4752 marine fish species were recorded across four states, i.e. Odisha (2611), Tamil Nadu (1656 species), West Bengal (314), and Andhra Pradesh (171), reflecting the region's ecological richness across estuarine, mangrove, and coral reef habitats. Family-level diversity was particularly high in groups such as Carangidae, Mugilidae, and Pomacentridae. Nutritionally, several species including, Lates calcarifer , Scomberomorus commerson , Rachycentron canadum , and Trichiurus lepturus were identified as rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamin D, calcium, selenium, and zinc. Small pelagic fish like, Indian mackerel and Indian anchovy are especially valuable for micronutrients, benefiting vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. These findings underscore the critical role of regional species in addressing nutritional security. However, conservation assessments reveal that while many species are listed as Least Concern, including Epinephelus fuscoguttatus and Harpadon nehereus face population declines. This study highlights the urgent need for integrated strategies promoting sustainable harvesting, nutritional profiling, and artificial propagation of key species, aligning biodiversity conservation with aquaculture development and long-term food security in the East Coast region of India. Conclusion The current reports highlight nutritionally valuable marine fish species rich in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, Vitamin D, Selenium, and Zinc along East coast of India. Species such as Lates calcarifer and Scomberomorus commerson exhibit high potential for enhancing nutritional security. Their availability and suitability for aquaculture underscore the need for sustainable management to balance nutrition, biodiversity, and long-term marine resource use.