Exotic fishes pull crowd at the four day Mathsya Mela

Visitors thronged the Kanteerva stadium to catch a glimpse of exotic fishes on display.

A South American variety of tropical fish called 'The Black Ghost Fish' was one of the biggest crowd pullers. From the freshwater habitats of South America, the species was among the 100 exotic and indigenous varieties of fishes that were displayed as a part of the four days long Mathsya Mela that began at the stadium on Friday.

"We were impressed with the sheer beauty of the various fishes displayed at the fair. I had never seen Electric yellow cichlids,parrot fish, guppies and other variety of fish found in Lake Malawi in East Africa before. I also picked some rare fishes for my aquarium," said Rajesh Prasad, a software professional who was visiting the exhibition with family.

Some other exotic species of fish on display were Tiger Sharks, rare varieties of goldfish and Veiltail Angelfish. Visitors of all ages were spellbound by the unique behavioural traits of the fish.

The fair also has on display some rare species of shells. Some of the largest and tiniest shells exhibited were from river beds and beaches. The Mela intends to popularise the ornamental fish among Bengalureans.

Another visitor Madhavi, a homemaker said "I have never seen such a huge variety of shells at display along with the exotic fishes. It has been an informative experience, coming to this event."

The fishes were exhibited as a part of the ornamental fish gallery. The Mela will also hold ornamental fish competitions. It has informative spots at the venue to know about the various kinds of fishes among other apart from the sale of fishes.

The four day mela that began on Friday at Sri Kanteera Stadium will end on Monday (December 11). Entry is free.