Why in the News?
Scientists have discovered a new species of snakehead fish named Channa bhoi from the state of Meghalaya, adding to India’s freshwater biodiversity.
About Channa Bhoi
• Newly identified species of snakehead fish
• Discovered from a small mountain stream near Iewmawlong village
• Location: Ri Bhoi district, Meghalaya
• Named after the Bhoi people, an indigenous group of the Khasi tribe inhabiting the region
Taxonomic and Ecological Details
• Belongs to the Gachua group of snakehead fishes
• The Gachua group is known for high species diversity in the Eastern Himalayan region
• Phylogenetic analysis shows it is a sister species to Channa bipuli, found in Northeast India
Distinctive Physical Features
• Bluish grey body colour
• Each scale has minute black spots
• Spots form eight to nine horizontal rows of broken lines along the body
• Distinctive banding patterns on the pectoral fins
• Unique colour pattern differentiates it from closely related species
Significance of the Discovery
• Highlights the rich freshwater biodiversity of Northeast India
• Emphasises the importance of mountain stream ecosystems
• Reflects ongoing discoveries in the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot
Key Prelims Fact
• With this discovery, the total number of Channa species recorded in India has increased to 26
| In a particular region in India, the local people train the roots of living trees into robust bridges across the streams. As the time passes, these bridges become stronger. These unique ‘living root bridges’ are found in (2015)
(a) Meghalaya (b) Himachal Pradesh (c) Jharkhand (d) Tamil Nadu |
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