🐟 First Francy K Kakkassery Memorial Lecture at St. Thomas College Celebrates Kerala’s Aquatic Biodiversity

St. Thomas College, Thrissur, witnessed a deeply reflective and inspiring academic gathering on 30th June 2025, with the launch of the First Francy K Kakkassery Memorial Lecture, hosted by the Research and Postgraduate Department of Zoology.

🌿 Honouring a Visionary Educator and Scientist

Held at Menachery Hall, the event paid tribute to Dr. Francy K Kakkassery, former HoD of Zoology and a pioneering freshwater biologist and entomologist from Kerala. The event began with a prayer and a heartfelt welcome address by Dr. Vimala K. John, who highlighted Dr. Kakkassery’s lifelong contributions to research and education.

In his presidential address, Rev. Dr. Martin K.A., Principal of the college, spoke about living a meaningful life and the importance of honoring academic legacies. He lauded the Department of Zoology for initiating this memorial series.

🎙️ Memorial Lecture: Groundwater and Subterranean Fishes of Kerala

The keynote lecture, titled “Groundwater and Subterranean Fishes of Kerala: A Tribute to Francy Kakkassery,” was delivered by Dr. Rajeev Raghavan, Assistant Professor at Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS).

He highlighted:

• The unique biodiversity of subterranean freshwater fishes in Kerala.
• The need for conservation of lesser-known aquatic fauna.
• Acknowledged the influence of Dr. Kakkassery in shaping his early research.

Dr. Raghavan is a globally acclaimed conservation biologist who has:

• Discovered over 21 new fish species, 3 genera, and 2 families.
• Uncovered the world’s first subterranean snakehead fish (Aenigmachanna gollum).
• Been honored with the FSBI Medal (2023) and listed among Scopus’s Top 2% Scientists worldwide.

💬 A Session of Remembrance and Reflection

The event concluded with an open session where colleagues, students, and friends fondly shared memories and praised Dr. Kakkassery’s profound academic influence.

The programme ended with a vote of thanks by Dr. Joyce Jose, the coordinator of the memorial lecture series.

📌 Event Highlights:

• 🎓 Academic Legacy Honoured
• 🐠 Lecture on Kerala’s Subterranean Fishes
• 🌏 Conservation and Research Excellence
• 💬 Interactive Session with Academic Reflections

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