THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: An international aqua fest and food court at Mamam grounds in Attingal is drawing huge crowds. Organised by the ‘Alangara Matsya Karshaka Sahakarana Sangham’ the event is attended by major aqua farmers in the state.
Hundreds of fish varieties are on display. Those from foreign countries too are on display. Organisers said around 150 varieties of from different foreign countries like Japan, Chile, Rumania, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Thailand and South America have been exhibited at the event.
According to Arjun Singh, an aqua farmer from Keezhillam, it is a challenging task to rear foreign breeds in Indian conditions. “For this we recreate a miniature of their real habitat in the aquariums,” he said.
Singh said such shows will help create awareness on aquaculture and mariculture among the people. “We have provided a small description on each exhibit for the knowledge of the layman and those interested in taking up aqua culture,” he said.
The show’s highlights include “Arapaima”, one of the largest freshwater fish variety that would grow up to 9 ft long and weigh 200 kg.
Feng Shui fishes “Arama” and “Arapaima” have large number of takers. Other varieties on high demand include aba aba, African lungfish and the African catfish.
Other attractions include talking catfish, red tail catfish, shovelnose fish, albino fish, silver pearl, golden redfish, arona, feather fish, green terror,falwar horn, asiatic, discus, albino clone knife and midas.
Food court
The food court offers different ethnic dishes like Monjathi biriyani to the visitors. “Malabar snacks varieties like unnakaya, chattipathiri, pazham nirachathu have large number of takers, especially children,” says Shajahan Nisan, owner of Blue Rose Healthy Food stall.
A children’s park, agriculture show and business stalls are also highlights of the fest. The show will conclude on Sunday.