Mackerel (Ayila) lovers of Kerala, Rejoice! Now you have another reason to indulge in your favourite fish curry as a new species of mackerel has been discovered.
The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has identified a new species of mackerel in the state, which is round in shape and black-dotted. It has been named as 'Scomber indicus' by a team of CMFRI scientists led by E M Abdussamad.
As per a New Indian Express report, the new species is distinctly different, both taxonomically and genetically, from the other members of the mackerel family.
This fish is locally referred to as 'pulli ayala' (dotted Mackerel) or 'pulli thiriyan' by fishermen. The taste of the fish is similar to the common mackerel and its flesh is soft.
"The newly identified Indian chub mackerel is distinct from other members of the mackerel family found earlier in the coastal waters around the world and is expected to boost the fishery of the state," CMFRI Director A Gopalakrishnan told PTI.
"The species would become a potential resource to form a commercial fishery," he added.
He also said that the number of mackerel is increasing in the state waters. In 2015, 10 tonnes of the Indian chub mackerel was recorded and in 2016 till now, around 25 tonnes has been caught from the Kerala coasts.
Mackerel and sardine are the most commonly available fish in the state and are in great demand too.