Two New Subterranean Fish Species Discovered in Assam
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Discovery of two new subterranean fish species in Goalpara district, Assam. |
| Species 1 | Gitchak nakana |
| - Type | Tiny, transparent, and blind loach. |
| - Size | Approximately 2 centimetres in length. |
| - Distinctive Feature | Transparent body revealing blood and internal organs, giving it a reddish appearance. |
| - Adaptation | Absence of functional eyes, reflecting adaptation to dark subterranean environments. |
| - Name Origin | Gitchak refers to the striking red colour in the Garo language; nakana combines Garo words associated with fish and blindness. |
| Species 2 | Rakthamichthys anchi |
| - Type | Slender, transparent, eel-like fish belonging to the swamp eel family (Synbranchidae). |
| - Habitat | Associated with underground groundwater environments. |