Kerala ornamental fish show attracts tourists

Kochi, Feb 5 : Thousands thronged the India International Aqua Show 2008 here showcasing a variety of ornamental fishes from across the country and abroad.

The show is being organised by the Department of Fisheries, Kerala, and the Union Ministry of Agriculture at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

"Visitors could be seen patiently waiting in long queues for taking a look at the beautiful world unfolding in aquariums. Even children enjoyed as this is a study-cum-excitement show," said Joji Changnacherry, a visitor.

There are famous fishes like the 'Yeel', 'Star Fish', 'Pakistani Butterfly Fish', and even the 'Arovana', which could cost more than one lakh for a single pair in the market.

Another visitor, added, "We come here to see the show every year. This time, we could see many varities of fishes, which is hard to see in other places. I think this kind of show not only good for public but also brings some knowledge about different species found in the sea".

The fish traders from Thailand are happy to take part in the show.

"Though India is not so big in terms of ornamental fish industry as compared to Thailand, in two to three years it will become a hub for it," said Wasan Pulsirivit, from Thailand.

Knowing the fact that the ornamental sector to boom in the coming future, the State Government is also coming up with an Aqua Technology Park at Kadungalloor, which will serve as the hub of ornamental fish production and export in Kerala.

An international seminar on ornamental fish breeding, farming and trade was also organised as part of the show.

The organisers from different countries like Malaysia, Singapore, the US, Sri Lanka and Indonesia took part in discussions on areas such as breeding and rearing technology of ornate fishes, hybridization, biotechnological applications for value addition and breeding technology and technological innovations in aquarium keeping.

The five-day show will conclude today. By Juhan Samuel

ANI