Admire the beauty of ‘Miss Kerala’, but try smuggling it — and you’ll face a hefty fine!

Kozhikode: Though nicknamed 'Miss Kerala' just two decades ago, the vividly coloured ornamental fish Sahyadria denisonii — adored by aquarists worldwide — has been crossing oceans for nearly half a century. However, the Kerala State Biodiversity Board has now moved to clamp down on its unauthorised trade.

From now on, commercial transport of this freshwater species without prior approval will attract legal action under the Biodiversity Act. Offenders may face a fine of up to ₹1 lakh.

The small but striking fish (called 'Chenkaniyan' in Malayalam), known scientifically as Sahyadria denisonii (Puntius denisonii), is endemic to parts of Kerala and Karnataka. The recent action by the State Biodiversity Board aims to prevent its overexploitation and ensure sustainable conservation practices.

Speaking to Mathrubhumi, Dr V. Balakrishnan, Member Secretary of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board, said the fish is now considered a regionally restricted species facing the threat of extinction. “Due to its limited reproduction and growing demand, urgent conservation steps were essential,” he explained.

According to a report by the scientific community at the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), Kerala is home to 250 native fish species. It was Dr Anna Mercy, a professor at KUFOS and the first researcher to achieve artificial breeding of Miss Kerala, who coined the affectionate moniker for the species.

The fish's shimmering hues and graceful form have made it a favourite in ornamental fish markets globally. However, with the rising demand putting pressure on wild populations, experts agree that regulation is key to protecting its fragile future.