Padathikora | Photo: Mathrubhumi
Kollam: A group of fishermen in the boat named ‘Ponnuthamburan’ caught a rare variety of fish worth Rs 59,000. The fish named 'Padathikora' has high demand in the market. The fishermen of the boat owned by Arattupuzha native Vinod are excited after catching the expensive fish.
The boat led by Gireeshkumar was on its way to Kayamkulam harbour when the men on board spotted a fish lying on the surface of the sea. Gireesh and Gopan jumped into the water to catch it and after much effort brought it to the boat.
The fish weighed 20 kg. Interestingly, the fishermen did not know the details about the species or its market value after catching it. They posted the images of the fish on a WhatsApp group. It was through a message on WhatsApp they realized its value in the market and that it is known as ‘Padathikora’ or ‘Medicinal Kora’. They took the fish to the market on Friday morning and sold it for Rs 59,000. Puthanthura native K Joy bought the fish through auction.
All Kerala Fishing Boat Operators' Association president Peter Mathews said that the medicinal properties of the fish are the reason behind its demand. Its meat is also delicious. A sponge-like material obtained from the fish's body is utilized for making threads used in surgeries. Usually, agents collect this material through an auction and supply it to customers. The best kind of crystal is found in 'Padathikora' that weigh more than 10 kg. These fishes are most commonly seen in coastal regions and are caught very rarely, Peter said.
A ‘Padathikora’ weighing 20-25 kg that was caught in Kollam a while back was also sold in an auction.
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