Integrating art, science and rural development: The multifaced role of aquarium keeping

Title : Integrating art, science and rural development: The multifaced role of aquarium keeping

Abstract:

Ornamental fish keeping has evolved beyond a recreational pastime to become a dynamic trade, a creative art form, a scientific discipline, and a catalyst for rural socioeconomic development. This presentation explores the multifaceted nature of ornamental aquaculture, highlighting its role in generating sustainable livelihoods, especially among rural and marginalized communities. The sector integrates husbandry skills, aesthetic design, and scientific innovation in breeding, nutrition, and disease management. As global demand for ornamental species rises, small-scale farmers and entrepreneurs are increasingly able to participate in profitable value chains, supported by low initial investment requirements and opportunities for skill-based employment. Through case examples and recent developments, the presentation will demonstrate how ornamental fish culture contributes to income diversification, women’s empowerment, youth engagement, and environmentally responsible aquaculture practices. Ultimately, it underscores the potential of the ornamental fish sector as a viable model for inclusive rural development and a bridge between science, art, and commerce.

Biography:

Dr. T.V. Anna Mercy studied M.Sc. Marine Biology at Cochin University, Kerala, India. She received Ph. D from Kerala University in 1982. Her Ph. D work was on a unique Indian blind clariid fish Horaglanis krishnai Menon that dwells only in subterranean wells at Kottayam, Kerala. She became the Junior Assistant Professor at College of Fisheries, Kerala Agricultural University, Panangad in 1984 & became Professor in 2002. She pioneered research on Indigenous fresh water Ornamental Fishes of the Western Ghats of India, developed captive breeding technology for 15 prioritized fresh water species including Sahyadria denisonii , which is a much sought after ornamental fish in the international market. It is popularly known as “Miss Kerala”.  She has published about 100 research papers including 50 in peer reviewed journals and authored/co authored many books. Presented research papers on different aspects of  ornamental fishes in several international conferences at Brazil, Oregon, USA,  China, South Africa, Ethiopia, Iceland, Netherland, China, Srilanka, Singapore, Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia and  Australia.