CMFRI ‘s open house draws children to explore marine life

To mark the 79th Foundation Day of the Visakhapatnam Centre of ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), an exhibition showcasing marine species was held as part of the open house event on Tuesday. It drew the interest of students from various schools and colleges.

Younger students captured pictures of marine species like jellyfish on their mobile phones, while the older students posed for selfies against the large cardboard cut-outs of octopus and lobsters, displayed outside the CMFRI premises.

Jellyfish on display at the ICAR Central Marine Fisheries Institute (CMFRI) in Visakhapatnam on Monday.
| Photo Credit:
K R DEEPAK

The day-long celebration, held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Centre’s R K Beach facility behind the Aqua Sports Complex, transformed the venue into a hub of marine education and discovery. Around 1,000 children from 15 schools and colleges across Visakhapatnam, along with 100 master’s and PhD students from various colleges and members of the public, thronged the premises to experience the fascinating world beneath the waves.

Students observe sea oysters on display at the ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute in Visakhapatnam on Monday.
| Photo Credit:
K R DEEPAK

The live display of marine creatures, including translucent jellyfish gracefully floating in specially designed tanks, various species of crabs, shrimps, colourful seaweeds, and diverse fish species caught the imagination of the young students. The interactive exhibits allowed visitors to witness marine biodiversity up close, creating memorable learning experiences that textbooks alone cannot provide.

The event featured multiple attractions including museum tours showcasing marine life history, SCUBA and surfing equipment, kayak, photo opportunities with shark, dolphin, lobster and octopus models. Additionally, students interacted with 12 marine researchers who shared insights into their groundbreaking work. Visitors also explored state-of-the-art laboratories, and observed microscopic marine organisms under microscopes. They also learnt about sustainable fishing practices, marine biodiversity conservation, and innovations in aquaculture technology.

The Visakhapatnam Regional Centre of ICAR-CMFRI stands is a premier research institution in Visakhapatnam, and it plays a crucial role in marine fisheries development and environmental monitoring in Andhra Pradesh. The Centre’s team contributes significantly to ocean conservation, sustainable fishing practices, and support for coastal communities, said Joe Kizhakudan, head, CMFRI, Vizag Centre.