A new species of loach fish was recently discovered in the South Garo Hills district of Meghalaya.
About Loach Fish (Schistura sonarengaensis):
- The new loach species was made by a team of scientists funded by the ICAR – National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources in Lucknow.
- It was found in three caves in South Garo Hills: Sonarenga cave, Nakama cave, and Chiabol cave.
- These caves are part of the Barak-Surma-Meghna drainage system, which borders Bangladesh.
- Schistura sonarengaensis is a freshwater bottom-dwelling fish.
- It has prominent eyes and 13-26 vertically elongated to circular mid-lateral black blotches (brownish in life) on a grayish-black mid-lateral stripe on a dull white or pale-beige body.
- It lacks typical morphological adaptations for subterranean life, such as a complete absence or vestigial presence of eyes and pigmentation.
- But it does exhibit reduced pigmentation compared to its epigean congeners.
- Genetic molecular analysis confirmed the distinction of Schistura sonarengaensis from other known species in the region.
About South Garo Hills:
- South Garo Hills is a district located in the southwestern part of the state of Meghalaya in northeastern India.
- It is bordered by Bangladesh to the south, the West Garo Hills district to the west, and the East Garo Hills district to the north and east.
- It is known for its extensive cave systems, including the Sonarenga, Nakama, and Chiabol caves.
- It shares Nokrek National Park with two other district and includes the Siju and Baghmara Pitcher Plant Wildlife Sanctuaries.
- The district is part of the Barak-Surma-Meghna river basin, with numerous streams and rivers flowing through it, contributing to its rich biodiversity.
- South Garo Hills is predominantly inhabited by the Garo tribe, known for their rich cultural heritage, traditional practices, and unique language.
The Garo people celebrate various traditional festivals, such as Wangala, which is a post-harvest festival.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Question:
Who discovered the new loach species?
The new loach species was discovered by a team of scientists funded by the ICAR – National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources in Lucknow.
Where was the new loach species found?
The new species was found in three caves in South Garo Hills: Sonarenga cave, Nakama cave, and Chiabol cave.
What drainage system are these caves part of?
These caves are part of the Barak-Surma-Meghna drainage system, which borders Bangladesh.