Short-term training on taxonomy techniques for marine biodiversity conservation gets underway
KOCHI, 20 February 2025: ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) distributed mangrove saplings to selected students of St. Sebastian School, Bolgatty with an aim to instil importance of marine biodiversity conservation among the young generation.
The initiative was organised on the side-line of the inauguration of a short-term training on integrated taxonomic techniques for marine biodiversity conservation.
Participants of the training programme, including scientists or officials from various research institutes under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), distributed the saplings to the school students.
The students were urged to plant these saplings in areas near their school and to focus on developing mangrove patches. CMFRI will further help students to monitor the growth of the patches through field visits and expert guidance.
Inaugurating the training, CMFRI Director Dr Grinson George emphasised the role of mangroves in using as a bio-shield against storm surges, coastal erosion and flooding. “Mangroves will play a critical role in combating the impact of climate change and protecting coastal biodiversity, especially in tropical ecosystems”, he said.
The 10-day training will cover both theoretical concepts and practical applications, providing insights into the critical role of taxonomy and its applications in fisheries research.
Dr Rekha Nair, Course Director of the programme highlighted the importance of citizen science initiative in marine biodiversity conservation. Dr Vaisakh G and Dr Shelton Padua also spoke on the occasion.
Photo caption: Students of St. Sebastian School, Bolgatty hold mangrove saplings at an awareness function held at CMFRI.
