Discover the Wonders of
Marine Biodiversity
A comprehensive digital repository of marine species documented by the
Central Marine Fisheries Research
Institute (ICAR-CMFRI).
Our Mission
We bridge the gap between rigorous marine research and public engagement. By fostering "Edu-tourism" and scientific curiosity, the museum serves as a premier center for biodiversity awareness, inspiring a collective commitment to protect the highly diverse marine life of the Indian Ocean.
The CMFRI Marine Biodiversity Museum serves as a crucial hub for research, education, and conservation. Its primary goals are to act as a centralized repository for marine resources data, maintaining a comprehensive collection of marine specimens as a national resource for future generations. The Museum systematically documents and catalogues marine species found in the Indian Ocean, including fishes, mollusks, crustaceans, corals, and other marine life forms. In November 2025, the Catalogue of the Museum Specimens was officially released, featuring detailed listings grouped under different phyla to build a baseline database for biodiversity assessments, ecological studies, and conservation planning.
Furthermore, the facility acts as a comprehensive reference center for taxonomists, ecologists, and marine scientists conducting in-depth research to aid fisheries management. By providing a platform for hands-on capacity building and educating the public, the museum continuously raises awareness about fragile marine ecosystems, helping to inspire future generations while promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
By fulfilling these objectives, the CMFRI Marine Biodiversity Museum plays a vital, irreplaceable role in advancing marine science, promoting wildlife conservation, and driving widespread public education across the nation.
Beyond our main galleries, the museum actively engages in educational outreach by conducting guided tours for school and college students, alongside multimedia presentations highlighting the importance of marine conservation. We are deeply dedicated to knowledge sharing through the development of marine science publications, pamphlets, and digital visual resources such as virtual tours and 3D ecosystem models. The museum also provides essential research support, housing an extensive reference collection for taxonomic studies and collaborating with numerous academic institutions worldwide.
Additionally, we offer robust internship and training programs focused on practical capacity building in specimen preservation and museum curation. As part of our citizen science and conservation initiatives, we distribute specialized conservation badges featuring endangered species—such as horseshoe crabs and marine mammals—along with marine organism stickers. These initiatives have been highly successful in fostering a deep curiosity in marine life among young visitors, especially during the Institute Foundation Day.
Plan Your Visit
Located within the ICAR–CMFRI Headquarters in Kochi, the museum offers a unique window into the marine biodiversity of the Indian EEZ.
ICAR-CMFRI, Abraham Madamakkal Road,
Ernakulam, Kochi, Kerala 682018
Timings
9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Monday to Friday
(Closed Saturdays, Sundays & Gazetted Holidays)
Admission Fees
Group Visits
School and college groups are requested to obtain prior permission from the Director, ICAR-CMFRI, to ensure a coordinated experience.
Photography Protocol
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum galleries to preserve the integrity of the scientific displays.
Planning a Group or Institutional Visit?
Colleges, schools, and research groups must obtain prior permission from the Director, ICAR-CMFRI, before visiting the museum.
Apply for Permission to VisitYour application will be directly forwarded to the Director's office.