Scientists of the Zoological Survey of India have discovered two new species of freshwater fish from the north-eastern and northern parts of the country. Both fish are equipped with special morphological features to suit rapid water flow.
Glyptothorax gopii:
Glyptothorax gopii is a new species of catfish found in Mizoram’s Kaladan river.
It measures 63 mm standard length without caudal fin, is dark brown on its dorsal surface, and its ventral surface is of a yellowish-light brown.
It has been named to celebrate the contribution of taxonomist K.C. Gopi.
It has an axe-shaped anterior nuchal plate (bone below dorsal fin), which makes it distinct from other species of the genus Glyptothorax.
The elliptical thoracic adhesive apparatus and plicae (folds of tissue) present on the ventral surfaces of the pectoral-fin spine help the fish cling to rocks.
Garra simbalbaraensis:
Garra simbalbaraensis was found in Himachal Pradesh’s Simbalbara river.
It measures 69 mm standard length without caudal fin and has a yellowish-grey colour fading ventrally.
It takes its name from the Simbalbara river.
It has a prominent unilobed and rounded proboscis with tubercles that help the fish in manoeuvrability.
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