Exposure Visit and Student-Scientist Interaction at ICAR-CCARI, Goa

            A group of 28 Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) students from the Government College of Arts, Science, and Commerce, Sanquelim, Goa, accompanied by Assistant Professors Dr. Suman Tari and Dr. Aishwarya Nene, visited the ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CCARI), Goa, on 31st January 2025. The visit aimed to provide students with practical exposure to advanced research in ornamental fisheries and aquaculture technologies developed at the institute. During their visit, students explored various sections of the fisheries research unit, including fish ponds, the ornamental fish wet lab, breeding units, and the public aquarium. Shri Trivesh Mayekar (Scientist, Fish Genetics and Breeding) introduced them to the technical aspects and advantages of Seabass polyculture over conventional farming methods. He also provided insights into the institute’s ongoing research on the breeding and seed production of indigenous and exotic freshwater ornamental fish species. The students observed a variety of ornamental fish, including koi carp, angelfish, melon barbs, indigo barbs, filament barbs, guppies, and different goldfish species. Additionally, he demonstrated innovative and eco-friendly aquaculture technologies developed by the institute, such as low-cost estuarine fish traps and the Crab-Barrel culture system. The students also learned about the duck-cum-fish cage culture system, which integrates duck farming with cage aquaculture to enhance nutrient recycling and overall production efficiency. They were introduced to the specialized ornamental fish feed formulated by the institute and guided through the cultivation of various aquatic plant species. Furthermore, they gained insights into the integrated pond culture systems being implemented at the institute.

The visit concluded with an engaging interactive session, where students had the opportunity to discuss their queries with scientists, deepening their understanding of fisheries and aquaculture research. The institute encouraged students to consider establishing ornamental fish units in the region, promoting youth entrepreneurship in sustainable aquaculture. Both students and faculty members highly appreciated ICAR-CCARI’s research and extension activities, particularly its contributions to sustainable aquaculture models such as seabass polyculture, duck-cum-fish cage culture, and ornamental fish farming. They expressed a keen interest in future research collaborations and hands-on training programs with the institute. The visit was successfully coordinated by Shri Trivesh Mayekar and Dr. G. B. Sreekanth (Scientists at ICAR-CCARI), along with Mr. Harshvardhan Shetye (Young Professional - I).