System for Museums & Archives for Research and Access to Knowledge
| Place | Mandapam |
|---|---|
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Virtual Museum | No |
| Year of Establishment | 1947 |
| Museum Type | Natural History / Marine Science Museum |
| National Importance Museum | Yes (Recognized as a |
| Address | Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Post Box No. 1603, Ernakulam North P.O., Kochi-682 018. |
| Visiting Time | 09:30 AM – 04:30 PM (Monday to Friday) Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. |
| Entry Fee | ₹20 for Adults ₹10 for Students and Children |
Established in 2006 at the CMFRI headquarters in Kochi, the museum was inaugurated by the renowned scientist Prof. M.S. Swaminathan. It aims to collect, catalogue, and preserve the diverse marine and coastal species found in Indian waters.
The museum houses over 2,800 specimens systematically arranged, including nearly 1,300 species of fish, as well as significant collections of crustaceans, mollusks, echinoderms, and corals.
Marine Megafauna & Antarctic Collection: Features rare specimens such as Antarctic krill, penguins, and a massive 14-meter-long Bryde's whale skeleton. It also houses six unique holotype specimens (the specific specimen used to describe a new species).
| Video URL | https://youtu.be/T_8NQM-Rwuw |
|---|---|
| Video Courtesy | CMFRI YT Channel |
| Archaeological Survey of India | No |
| Notes | The museum is a major highlight during the annual CMFRI Open House (typically held in February), attracting thousands of students. It is considered one of the largest and most specialized marine museums in Asia. |
| Artifacts | Whale Shark and Humphead Wrasse specimens; sunfish and oarfish; rare deep-sea organisms; and a diverse display of precious pearls and shell jewelry. |
| Highly Descriptive | Yes |
| Contact Details | +91 484 239 4357 / +91 484 239 4867 |
| Email ID | director.cmfri@icar.org.in |