CMFRI’s Fish Walk at Munambam Harbour Offers Hands-On Insight into Marine Life

by Fishery News

Kochi: In an engaging field experience, fish enthusiasts from various backgrounds teamed up with scientists and technical experts from the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) for a Fish Walk at Munambam Harbour. This outreach event provided participants with a rare, close-up encounter with marine biodiversity and the daily workings of the fishing industry.

The harbour buzzed with activity as nine trawlers offloaded their fresh catch, offering a glimpse into Kerala’s marine wealth. Species like ribbonfish (both large-head and small-head), cuttlefish, squid, Indian scad, bulleyes, and pufferfish dominated the haul, along with other varieties destined for fish meal production. A team of CMFRI specialists, including Miriam Paul Sreeram, Ratheesh Kumar R., Aju Raju, Sreekumar K.M., and Sajikumar K.K., guided participants through the unique traits and ecological importance of these species.

Participants also discovered unexpected facts about the commercial use of marine organisms—like how the gill structures of rays are valued in traditional Asian medicine and how fish maws (swim bladders) from species such as eels and croakers are utilized in food and wine production. In total, the group catalogued 42 fish species, five cephalopods, and two types of shrimp during the session. However, the quantity of the landings was slightly lower than usual due to unsettled weather in the preceding days.

Attendees included students at various academic levels and professionals from industries such as banking, oil refining, and architecture, all eager to expand their understanding of fisheries. The group explored the nuances of Kerala’s fisheries ecosystem, covering topics such as fishing gear and methods, the financial aspects of fishing expeditions, the transportation and sale of catches, and the socio-economic conditions of fishing communities.

CMFRI experts also discussed the growing impact of climate change on marine ecosystems, helping participants appreciate the evolving challenges faced by the fisheries sector.

The next Fish Walk will take place on October 26 at Chellanam, offering another 25 participants a chance to engage with the fascinating world of marine life and fisheries.

 

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