A new freshwater fish species, Garra nambashiensis , has been discovered in the Taretlok River , a tributary of the Chindwin River near Nambashi Valley in Kamjong district, Manipur. The discovery, led by Dr. Bungdon Shangningam of Dhanamanjuri University, highlights the biodiversity significance of Northeast India and its transboundary river ecosystems.
Discovery and Habitat
The species was found in riffles of shallow, fast-flowing waters with gravel beds, cobbles, boulders, and algae. These clean, oxygen-rich environments support diverse aquatic life. The Taretlok River’s location near the Indo-Myanmar border underscores shared ecological resources.
Distinctive Features
-
Quadrate-shaped proboscis .
-
7–8 acanthoid tubercles on the snout margin.
-
Black spots on the opercle (gill cover).
-
6 black stripes extending to the tail base.
-
Adults measure 90–140 mm in length.
-
Locally called Nutungnu .
Taxonomy
The fish belongs to the genus Garra under the Labeonine family , known for bottom-dwelling species adapted to river currents. It joins the proboscis group within Garra , which now includes over 60 species in Northeast India.
Biodiversity Significance
The Chindwin, Brahmaputra, Barak, and Kaladan river systems are rich in Garra diversity, with 32 species in the proboscis group alone. The Chindwin system hosts eight species, including the recently described Garra chingaiensis . Such diversity reflects the region’s unique ecological and evolutionary patterns.
Conservation Need
The discovery reinforces the importance of freshwater habitat conservation amid threats like pollution and habitat modification. It also calls for sustained ichthyological surveys to document and protect species in border river systems.
Previous Contributions
Dr. Shangningam’s team earlier identified Pethia poiensis in 2018 from the Challou River, Ukhrul district. Their work continues to expand global knowledge of freshwater biodiversity hotspots in Manipur and beyond.
Month: Current Affairs - September 16, 2025
Category: current affairs daily