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New Snakehead Fish Species 'Channa nachi' Identified in Meghalaya.

Environment | Dated: 02 Apr 2025

In March 2025, a newly discovered species of snakehead fish, Channa nachi, was identified in a remote stream in South Garo Hills, Meghalaya, a biodiversity hotspot in Northeast India.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - It was first collected in 2021 by local fish enthusiast Farham Sangma from a shallow, slow-flowing tributary of the Simsang River system.
  • - The species was officially recognized and described in the scientific journal Zootaxa.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) The species is named nachi in honor of Farham Sangma, acknowledging his contribution to the discovery. The term nachi is derived from the Garo language, reflecting the indigenous culture's connection to local biodiversity.
  • (ii) Channa nachi is a newly identified species of snakehead fish, distinguished by its slender body and striking bicolor appearance.
  • (iii) Its coloration transitions from a creamish-yellow front to a deep blue back, complemented by 10-12 pale brown saddles on its dorsal half and pale-blue marbling along its sides.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Which state in India was the recently identified snakehead fish species 'Channa nachi' discovered in?

Correct Answer: Meghalaya

🚀 Quick Recap: