Exotic ornamental fish exhibition in Kozhikode

Kozhikode, Dec 22: Different varieties of exotic ornamental fishes would be on display at 'Matsyalankar 2007,' an all-India Aquarium Show and Exhibition beginning here on January 1.

'Punutius Danisonii,' famous world over and exported mainly to Europe and 'Quran Angel' from Lakshadweep, are some of the items to be showcased in the eight-day event organised by the National Aquaculture Society as part of the Malabar Shopping Festival, general convenor P K Girish said.

He said the 'Matsayalakar' would have as many as 250 aquarium stalls at the exhibition ground along the Calicut Beach.

The exhibition was significant at a time when Kerala was emerging as a major player in ornamental fish production, diversification, value addition and trade in the country, which had registered a business worth Rs 6.5 crore during 2004-05.

He said the exhibition would also bring together farmers, dealers and government agencies under one roof to showcase the progress the state had made in the field and create awareness among the traders and hobbyists.

Many Central and State Government agencies including Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Matsyafed, State Fisheries Department, Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) and Forest Department would also take part in the event.

Besides, two firms from overseas, H K S International from Thailand and Aquarium Centre of Abu Dhabi, would also attend, he added.

UNI