KOCHI, 12 February 2019 : Napoleon wrasse, one of the world’s biggest reef fishes, got centre of attraction in an exhibition of marine life held at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) recently.

The fish (Cheilinus undulates), which is listed as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, is known to live for around 50 years.

The huge crowd who came to see the wonders of marine world was awestruck by the giant-sized fish weighing 35 kg which was deposited at the National Marine Biodiversity Museum at the CMFRI only a few months ago.

The museum also showcased a collection of marine species such as sea hares, flying squid, horse shoe crab, sea snakes, sea birds, pearl oyster, sea cow, sharks, penguin, dolphin, etc.

The sea hares is known for its high medicinal value especially in the treatment of cancer. The CMFRI museum is the national designated registry of marine species which has around a collection of 3000 marine specimens.

CMFRI opened its doors for public to give them the ringside view of the marine splendours marking the 72nd foundation day of the institute. Visitors also got attracted to the display of pelagic, demersal, molluscan and crustacean fishery resources such as dolphin fish, rare species of sharks and rays, giant tiger shrimp and giant-sized crabs. Around 6000 people, mostly students, visited the CMFRI on its foundation day to watch the exhibition which also showcased marine ornamental varieties, pearls, pearl oysters, squid jigs, different varieties of mangroves, seaweeds, etc.

The visitors also displayed keen interest in understanding the functioning of the fish ageing laboratory of the CMFRI. The laboratory uses state-of-the-art equipment to estimate the age of the fish and the scientists explained to the visitors the various stages involved in the process.

Models of cage fish farming, aquaponics, ornamental fish farming, recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) etc. were demonstrated to the public. The visitors also interacted with the scientists and engaged in discussions on the issues and challenges being faced by the marine fishery of the country.

Laboratories related to molecular biology, bioprospecting, cell culture, fishery biology, environmental research, climate change, ocean acidification etc. also were opened to the public during the programme.  Awareness on dangers of dumping plastic wastes into water ecosystem also was held. Information service was provided at the all exhibition stalls arranged under the aegis of 10 Divisions of CMFRI.

Photo caption: A marine scientist telling visitors of the Napoleon warasse, an endangered fish associated with reefs at the marine exhibition held at the CMFRI to mark its 72nd foundation day