ICAR-CMFRI opens doors to fascinating world of marine life on the occasion of its 79th Foundation Day

Massive skeleton of a 14-metre-long Bryde’s whale emerges as centre of attraction

3 February 2026, Kochi

ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute opened its doors to the public as part of its as part of its 79th Foundation Day today, offering a rare opportunity to explore the fascinating world of marine biodiversity and marine fisheries research. The Institute Headquarters in Kochi and various Regional Centres and Research Stations organised interactive exhibits showcasing the wonders of marine life before students and the general public. Special awareness programmes and interactive sessions were conducted, providing insights into the importance of marine biodiversity conservation.

Dr Duvvuri Seshagiri, Director, Naval Physical & Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL) inaugurated the Open House and a newly launched Marine Megafauna Museum at the Headquarters in Kochi.

Dr Grinson George, Director, ICAR-CMFRI presided. A massive skeleton of a 14-metre-long Bryde’s whale and the songs of marine mammals recorded underwater left visitors awestruck at the Marine Megafauna Museum, which emerged as the centre of attraction for students, families, and marine life enthusiasts. Marine scientists and experts used the occasion to create awareness among students and the public about marine mammals, their ecological significance and the need for their conservation.

At the National Marine Biodiversity Museum, sunfish and oarfish received special attention. The museum housed specimens of several rare and iconic marine organisms, including giant clams, whale sharks, humphead wrasse, and an array of deep-sea organisms. Various research divisions showcased interactive exhibits and offered insights into the unknown world of the marine biodiversity. A wide array of marine organisms, including sharks, rays, different fish varieites, shrimps, crabs, squids, octopus and pearl oyster were exhibited, drawing keen interest from visitors. The exhibition also featured mariculture technologies and traditional fishing gears.  Environmental aspects of marine biodiversity, conservation challenges, and sustainable fisheries management were also highlighted during the event. An interactive workshop on career pathways in agriculture and allied science were also held, where students engaged directly with a panel of scientists.

The Open House organised by all the Centres and Stations of ICAR-CMFRI to mark the Foundation Day served as a platform to create public awareness about marine ecosystems and to familiarise visitors with ICAR-CMFRI’s research contributions in marine fisheries, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable utilisation of ocean resources. ICAR-CMFRI’s facilities such as various laboratories, hatcheries and library were opened to the public.

(Source: ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi)