Dragon Snakehead Fish

About Dragon Snakehead Fish:

• It is considered ‘living fossils’ and named after the character in Lord of the Rings.
• It is mainly found in Kerala.
• It evolved around 120 million years ago, probably with dinosaurs in the Jurassic period.
• Since it was isolated in underground habitats, scientists say the extinction events on land may not have affected it.
• Habitat: It is mostly seen in wetlands and nearby paddy fields.
• After the species was identified, it became one of the most wanted items in international aquarium pet trade.
• Due to its dragon-like appearance, it is used as a good luck fish in far east countries.
• It is a subterranean fish whose distribution is embedded within human dominated landscapes, making conservation measures difficult.
• Threats: The assessment also observes the use of pesticides and insecticides in the paddy fields and the deterioration or quality of groundwater as other factors impacting the survival of the species.
• Conservation measures: Protecting wetlands and regulating the use of pesticides and insecticides are among the recommendations as there has been a decline in the area and quality of habitats.
• Conservation status
  • IUCN red list: Vulnerable
  • The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule II