The Marine Megafauna Museum, part of the ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute’s 79th Foundation Day celebrations in Kochi, featured a 14-meter-long Bryde’s whale skeleton recovered from a stranding incident in October 2023. The exhibit captivated visitors, shedding light on the biology and conservation importance of large marine mammals.
Displayed at the museum on the CMFRI campus, the Bryde’s whale skeleton became a focal point, drawing students, families, and marine enthusiasts. Scientists engaged the audience by explaining the behavior and ecological significance of marine mammals, emphasizing the crucial need for their protection.
The National Marine Biodiversity Museum, another highlight of the event, showcased rare specimens like sunfish and oarfish, along with iconic marine species such as whale sharks and humphead wrasse. The museum’s exhibits highlighted India’s diverse marine ecosystems, featuring giant clams, deep-sea organisms, and other marine life forms.
Research divisions at the event presented interactive displays unveiling lesser-known aspects of marine life, featuring a variety of organisms like sharks, rays, fish species, and crustaceans. The exhibition also included demonstrations on mariculture technologies and traditional fishing methods, addressing environmental concerns like marine conservation and sustainable fisheries management.
Visitors were granted access to the institute’s facilities, including laboratories and hatcheries, providing insights into the extensive research conducted by the CMFRI. Additionally, an interactive workshop on career opportunities in agriculture and allied sciences was organized, allowing students to engage with CMFRI experts and explore marine and fisheries sciences pathways.
The open house event not only showcased the CMFRI as a leading research institution but also highlighted its role in bridging science with the public, promoting awareness and appreciation for marine ecosystems and their biodiversity.
