MP: New species of fish discovered in Narmada basin, know more about it, why discovery is significant?
Scientists have discovered a new type of fish called Indoreonectes Mahadeoensis in the Narmada River basin in Madhya Pradesh. This fish is a kind of river loach, which is a genus of small freshwater fish. Indoreonectes Mahadeoensis has special features that set it apart from other fish, like a specific number of fin rays and unique patterns on its body.
The discovery took place during a fish survey in the Mahadev Hills area of the Satpura Tiger Reserve. Scientists Meghna Ghosh, Jayraj Antony Johnson, and Anuradha Bhatt worked together to identify this new species. They noticed that its body structure was different from known fish, and further studies confirmed it was a new species.
This fish has eight branched rays in its dorsal fin and seven in its anal fin, along with long nasal barbels and distinct patterns on its sides.
Loach fish are ecologically extremely important
Loach fish are ecologically extremely important. As bottom-dwelling creatures, they play a vital role in nutrient recycling, cleansing aquatic ecosystems, and serving as biological indicators of the health of freshwater environments. Despite their importance, many loach species face habitat destruction, dam construction, pollution, and overexploitation, negatively impacting their natural populations.
Rich aquatic biodiversity
The discovery of the Indoreonectes Mahadeoensis fish highlights the rich aquatic biodiversity of central India and the sensitive ecological importance of the Satpura Range. This discovery suggests that many species still exist in this region, requiring scientific study and efforts for their conservation and habitat protection.