Kumarakom: A rare freshwater fish, locally known as Chithala or clown knifefish, has been spotted in Vembanad Lake. The species, seldom seen in the region, was caught in the fishing nets of Kaniyathara Sanjayan (48) at the Chithira stretch of the lake.

Weighing about 2.5 kg, the fish has a flat, elongated body and a distinctive curved dorsal fin that resembles a barber's knife, earning it the local name Pichathi Malsyam. Its dorsal region is relatively small, while the tail and rear fins are fused. The species is covered with tiny scales and typically grows to a length of 25 to 60 cm.

According to KG Padmakumar, former Associate Director of the Rural Agriculture Centre, this variety of fish is edible.