Marine scientists have discovered a new species of snake eel, Bascanichthys chepakakiensis, in the shallow waters of the Bay of Bengal (Andhra Pradesh and Odisha coasts). This marks the second species of the Bascanichthys genus found in Indian waters, ending a 60-year gap since the last such discovery. The species was identified through morphological and DNA analysis of specimens collected as bycatch from commercial fishing nets.
Key Morphological and Ecological Features
- Taxonomy: It belongs to the order Anguilliformes and the family Ophichthidae (snake eels/worm eels).
- Etymology: The name is derived from Telugu: Chepa (fish) and Kakinada (the port city near the collection site).
- Physical Traits: Features an elongated, cylindrical, snake-like body, distinct dorsal/lateral coloration, and a unique snout-to-tooth structure.
- Behavior: It is a benthic dweller that inhabits soft sediments and mudflats, using its hard, pointed tail to burrow backward into the substrate to ambush prey.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Ophichthidae Family: Known as snake eels; they are non-venomous and act as mid-level predators in the marine food web.
- Bycatch: The incidental capture of non-target species in commercial fishing. While ecologically harmful, it often aids in documenting hidden marine biodiversity.
- Bay of Bengal Biodiversity: A global hotspot due to nutrient-rich discharge from major rivers like the Ganga, Godavari, Krishna, and Mahanadi, which support diverse estuarine ecosystems.
- Global Status: This discovery increases the total global count of the Bascanichthys genus to 20 species.