Aquatic Biodiversity Museum and Repository
The Aquatic Biodiversity Museum and Repository at ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE), Mumbai, was formally inaugurated on 20 March, 2023, by the Hon’ble Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR), New Delhi in the presence of Dr. Ravishankar C. N., Director & Vice-chancellor, ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai. This museum is a dedicated facility aimed at preserving, showcasing, and promoting India's rich and diverse aquatic biodiversity. Click for Glimpses of Aquatic Biodiversity Museum and Repository development.
Key Features:
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Diverse Collection: The museum houses an impressive collection of around 550 species of aquatic life, including finfish, shellfish, mollusks, crustaceans, seaweeds, mangroves, and invertebrates. It also displays models of fish gear and crafts, providing a comprehensive understanding of the fishing and aquatic ecosystems.
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Digital Library & Advanced Technology: One of the standout features of the museum is its digital library, which is equipped with cutting-edge Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) modules. These technologies allow visitors to explore fisheries and aquatic life in an interactive and immersive way, enhancing their educational experience.
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Educational Resource: The museum serves as an invaluable resource for students, researchers, and the general public, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of aquatic biodiversity. By highlighting the importance of preserving these ecosystems, the museum educates visitors on environmental stewardship and the necessity of protecting aquatic habitats.
Visitor Footfall: Since its opening in 2023, the museum has seen a steady stream of visitors, with over 4,000 visitors from various groups, including school students, college students, and the general public, walking through its doors. This footfall is a testament to the growing interest in aquatic biodiversity and the role of education in raising awareness.
Maintenance & Outreach: The museum is maintained by the FRHPHM (Fisheries Resources, Harvest & Post-Harvest Management) division staff and students. Students from the Fisheries Resource Management (FRM) department are divided into four groups, each tasked with different responsibilities related to the museum's maintenance and outreach activities. This involvement provides students with hands-on experience in the field of aquatic biodiversity conservation.
Souvenir Shop: In addition to its scientific displays, the museum hosts a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase unique artworks created by students. These artworks, which reflect the creativity of the students, are available for sale, providing a way for visitors to take home a piece of the museum experience.
Guided Tours: For a more in-depth and interactive experience, the museum offers guided tours. These tours provide detailed explanations about the exhibits, the importance of preserving aquatic biodiversity, and the role of the museum in promoting environmental awareness.
Public Access: The museum is open to the public, making it a significant part of the community’s educational infrastructure. It provides an opportunity for people of all ages to learn about the importance of aquatic life and ecosystems.
For more information or to plan a visit, you may write to:
director@cife.edu.in / nayakbb@cife.edu.in / iburahim@cife.edu.in