Chemistry is a science of development of human civilization. From European Industrial Revolution in 19th Century to the present day, the scenario of Biotechnology and Nanotechnology is all related to chemical sciences. In the arena of scientific development Chemists are the major stake holders. Be it Peace, war or mission to Mars, Chemists are the main players in these endeavors. The recent developments in nuclear chemistry, missile technology, environmental sciences, and understanding of intricacies of genetic engineering and biological processes, biosensors, industrial growth and energy are all due to chemistry in one way or the other. It not only adds value to the raw materials but also provides new raw materials for high-tech industries like pharmaceuticals, textiles, agro-industry, medicines, biomechanics, and space science and so on. Therefore, it alleviates human sufferings and proves to be an effective tool to fight against poverty.
Similarly, chemists play a vital role in fish farm management by controlling physicochemical parameters, feed and fertilizer. Soil reclamation also needs their expertise.
Fish is a highly perishable meat commodity which constantly deteriorates its quality due to harmful effects of chemicals, bio-chemicals and pathogens from the environment. There are a number of possibilities of infectious and non-infectious toxicoses and residue viz; mycotoxins, pesticides, insecticides, antibiotics, antibacterial, metalloids, food and water related toxicants, industry related toxicants, inorganic salts, ionizing and non-ionizing radiations, environmental pollutants, food additives and toxic gases in the fish pond. In aquaculture system these factors may affect fish growth and quality as well as some time causing fish farming disasters resulting in significant economic losses accrue to the producers. Human being directly or indirectly may be affected through the consumption of such type of fish/fish product. Generally, the masses are not aware of harmful effects of the aforesaid exposure which are generating complicated diseases and even causing death.
The Chemistry laboratory of Fish Quality Control Laboratory is the state of the art and most valued laboratory of Punjab Fisheries Department consisting of highly sophisticated instruments, qualified and trained staff to meet the challenges of chemical testing. The chemistry laboratory has well defined areas of General Testing Lab-I, General Testing Lab-II, General Testing Lab-III, LC-MS lab, ICP Lab and Protein estimation lab. The major focus of the chemistry laboratory of FQCL is to carry out the chemical testing of fish, fish products, water, fish feed etc. as per international standards. The chemistry laboratory due to large number of testing parameters further divided into Chem-I and Chem-II.
There is much interest in supplementing exploited stocks of fish by releasing juveniles that may be wild caught and reared in nurseries before transplanting, or produced solely within a hatchery. Culture of Fin Fish larvae has been utilised extensively in the United States in stock enhancement efforts to replenish natural populations. The Punjab Fish and Wildlife Service have established a National fish seed nursing units System to support the conservation of native fish species.