The Estuarine Biology Regional Centre (EBRC) at Gopalpur in Odisha has unveiled a new development in the realm of marine biology. The team has discovered a new snake eel species residing in the Bay of Bengal, bolstering the assertion that the rich marine biodiversity along the extensive Indian coastline remains substantially unexplored and continues to hold secrets for us to discover.
A Tribute to Dr Kailash Chandra: Ophichthus kailashchandrai
The new marine species has been christened as Ophichthus kailashchandrai, named in appreciation of the significant contributions of Dr Kailash Chandra, the Director of Zoological Survey of India, to Indian animal taxonomy. Marking the eighth species of the Ophichthus genus discovered on the Indian coast, this discovery not only adds to our understanding of marine life but also pays homage to a renowned figure in the field of zoology.
Vital Statistics: Characteristics of the New Eel Species
Ophichthus kailashchandrai dwells approximately 50 metres under the sea. An individual of the species averages between 420 mm and 462 mm in length. Sporting a light brown-coloured body with white fins, the newly discovered eel boasts a unique appearance. Despite their slimy exterior, these eels are not poisonous, making them safe for human interaction. With moderately elongated, conical, and sharp teeth, they primarily dine on small fish and crabs.
Facts about Ophichthus kailashchandrai
| Characteristics | Details |
|---|---|
| Species Name | Ophichthus kailashchandrai |
| Location | Bay of Bengal, India |
| Length | 420 mm to 462 mm |
| Color | Light Brown with White Fins |
| Diet | Small Fish and Crabs |
| Poisonous | No |
Estuarine Biology Regional Centre (EBRC): The Discoverers of the New Species
The Estuarine Biology Regional Centre, situated at Gopalpur on-sea in Odisha, is one among the 16 regional centres of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI). Established in 1980 under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the EBRC has been entrusted with the responsibility of conducting surveys, explorations and research on the faunal diversity of estuaries, backwaters, lagoons and mangrove ecosystems within India. This new discovery further demonstrates the centre’s commitment to its mission, while also highlighting the sheer complexity and richness of India’s marine biodiversity.