Kottayam: Manjakkoori, or the sun catfish, an endemic freshwater species, has survived the threat of extinction and is now making a steady comeback.
When its population had dropped to just one per cent of its original stock, the local Agriculture Research Centre at Kumarakom launched a conservation initiative to revive the species. A research project led by Dr K. G. Padmakumar played a key role in restoring its numbers, and today, the sun catfish is once again thriving in Vembanad Lake and the rivers across Kuttanad.

Fisherfolk in the region now catch up to 15 kilograms of Manjakkoori on a single trip. The fish breeds during June and July, and each female lays thousands of eggs. With most of these successfully hatching, the population has rebounded impressively. A mature sun catfish can grow to weigh around one kilogram.

Golden-yellow in colour, the fish is easily recognised by two distinctive black spots on either side of its head. It is prized for its mild aroma, tender flesh, and rich taste.