Vembanad Lake's fragile ecology explored through CMFRI backwater cruise

Kochi, Sep 30 (UNI) A backwater cruise organised by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) to Kadamakkudy offered participants an opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of Vembanad Lake and understand the ecological challenges confronting its fragile ecosystem. The cruise, organised under CMFRI's Fish Walk outreach initiative in connection with Swachhata Hi Seva week and World Tourism Day, took participants through mangrove habitats, Pokkali paddy fields and island communities, highlighting the close links between the lake's aquatic ecosystem, biodiversity and traditional livelihoods. Flagged off from Marine Drive by CMFRI Director Dr Grinson George, the journey covered the route from…