New Research Centres at Kufos to Boost Industry
The Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos) has opened eight new research centres aimed at finding solutions to the issues plaguing the fisheries industry and tapping the full potential of highly prospective sector. The centres will play a crucial role in connecting the university to the society, by offering research in diagnosing diseases in fish, preventing the threat of extinction of indigenous fish varieties, producing medicines from marine organisms, conservation of mangroves and biodiversity,” university authorities said.
The Centre for Bio-active Substances from Marine Organisms will be established to develop different types of bio-active compounds which can be used as medicine for cardiovascular diseases, as anti-cancer agents, anti-microbial agents and anti-inflammatory agents, while the Centre for Inland Fisheries Database focuses on assessing the stock of fish in inland water bodies and threats to the fisheries resources.
The Centre for Taxonomy of Aquatic Animals will scientifically assess the aquatic wealth of the state and establish a museum of aquatic animals and the Centre for Indigenous Knowledge of Traditional Fisherfolk is aimed at documenting various aspects of the dying wisdom of traditional fishing communities and retrieving knowledge on indigenous livelihood skills, customs, practices, cultures and values associated with fishing hamlets. The centre will develop a digital library of traditional knowledge in the sector. The Centre for Mangrove Research/Seed Production seeks to conserve mangrove varieties in the country by protecting and generating its seeds. Centre for Aquaculture Genetics and Biotechnology is aimed at promoting cutting-edge research in genetic characterisation of economically important aquatic species.
The Centre for Nutritional Research Feed Formulation and Standardisation/Enforcement of Feed Quality will focus on developing nutritionally appropriate, cost-effective feeds to enhance production, increase profits and help address food security issues effectively.