Abisys.in

ABISYS |

OVERVIEW

The Aquatic Biodiversity & Systematics Research Community at the Department of Aquatic Biology & Fisheries, University of Kerala, is led by Prof. A. Biju Kumar.

Over the past two decades, the lab has discovered numerous new genera and species of aquatic organisms from both marine and freshwater environments while also training many researchers in taxonomy.

The lab’s success is largely due to a dedicated team of young and passionate researchers who collaborate with leading taxonomists worldwide to stay updated with the latest knowledge. Additionally, the lab maintains strong relationships with citizen scientists and fisherfolk across India to continually update information on aquatic biodiversity.

The major taxa currently under investigation include Cnidaria, Crustacea, Mollusca, Echinodermata, marine turtles, pelagic birds, and marine mammals. The lab’s policy is to collaborate with experts in the field to produce high-quality research. Furthermore, the team is actively involved in training, capacity building, and extension activities, continually expanding their research into allied areas.

MEET OUR RESEARCHERS

RESEARCH FOCUS

Taxonomy and Systematics

Our lab is dedicated to advancing the understanding of biodiversity through detailed taxonomy and systematics studies, using integrative taxonomic tools.

We specialize in a wide range of taxa, including: Marine Mammals, Pelagic Birds, Freshwater and Marine Snakes, Marine and Freshwater Fish, Echinodermata, Crustacea (Parasitic and Free-living), Mollusca, Cnidaria (Jellyfish and Sea Anemones) and Porifera.

Fish and Shellfish Biology

Our researchers focus on the intricate dynamics of feeding and breeding biology in fish and shellfish, contributing to a deeper understanding of aquatic life cycles. Additionally, we specialize in invasion biology, studying the impacts of invasive species on ecosystems and biodiversity.

Aquatic Ecology

Our research team is dedicated to understanding and preserving aquatic ecosystems through:

Water Quality Studies – Assessing and monitoring aquatic health, in both freshwater and marine ecosystems.
Environmental Impact Assessments – Evaluating human and natural influences on ecosystems.
Trophic Modelling – Exploring food web dynamics and energy flow.

Marine Monitoring

Our team conducts comprehensive marine monitoring programs aimed at understanding and preserving marine ecosystems. Our key areas of focus include:
Biodiversity Documentation – Recording and analyzing marine life.
Climate Change Studies – Investigating its impact on marine environments.
Marine Pollution – With a primary emphasis on tackling marine debris.

Outreach and Skilling

Our team offers training in taxonomy, biodiversity documentation, environmental monitoring, and ornamental fish keeping.

We partner with other organisations and work with citizen scientists for implementing various projects, fish census, biodiversity mapping, biodiversity registers etc. With our expertise in policy development, we contribute to creating frameworks that drive sustainable environmental practices.