Two new species of Freshwater Fish found

Scientists of Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered 2 new species of freshwater fish from north-eastern and northern parts of country. Both fish are hill stream fauna, measures less than 7 centimetres (cm) and are equipped with special morphological features to suit rapid water flow.

Key Findings

Both species of fish were discovered from remote areas of country. As Glyptothorax gopii was discovered from Mizoram’s Champai district near India-Myanmar border and Garra simbalbaraensis has been found from Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmour district.

As per the experts, origin or evolution of fishes in Himalayas and north-eastern parts of India is probably the consequence or after-effects of orogenic events or geological movement at various stages in Himalayas’ uplift.

Glyptothorax gopii

It is a new species of catfish found in Kaladan river of Mizoram.

Features: It measures 63 mm standard length without caudal fin (tail fin). It is dark brown on its dorsal surface and its ventral (pelvic) surface is of a yellowish-light brown.

It has been named to celebrate contribution of eminent taxonomist K.C. Gopi.

What makes it distinct from other species of genus Glyptothorax? It has an axe-shaped anterior nuchal plate (bone below dorsal fin) which is unique to it.

The elliptical thoracic adhesive apparatus and plicae (folds of tissue) present on ventral surfaces of pectoral-fin spine help fish cling to rocks.

Garra simbalbaraensis:

It was found in Simbalbara river of Himachal Pradesh.

Features: It measures 69 mm standard length without caudal fin (tail fin) and has a yellowish-grey colour fading ventrally (towards lower surface).

It takes its name from Simbalbara river.

It has a prominent unilobed and rounded proboscis with tubercles that help fish in manoeuvrability (movement or series of moves requiring skill and care).

Species of genus Gara has an evolved disc to attach to rocky surfaces.

Month: Current Affairs - August, 2019