A new freshwater fish species, Barilius imphalensis, has been discovered in the Imphal River near Manipur University. Belonging to the Cyprinidae family, the species highlights the rich aquatic biodiversity of Northeast India and underscores the need for conservation in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.
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A new species of freshwater fish, named Barilius imphalensis, has been discovered in the Imphal River in Manipur.
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Feature |
Details |
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Common Name (Local) |
“Ngawa” (in Meitei language) |
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Discovery Location |
Imphal River, Manipur |
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Endemism |
Endemic to the Imphal River |
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Family |
Danionidae |
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Subfamily |
Chedrinae (Danionid fishes) |
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Habitat Type |
Clear, shallow freshwater (3–5 ft deep) with gravel & cobble beds |
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Ecological Features |
Riverbank vegetation-lined habitats |
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Key Distinctive Traits |
- No barbells - Short blue vertical bars on the body - Tiny tubercles on snout & jaw |
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Lateral Line |
Complete lateral line with 41 scales—crucial for sensing movement & vibration |
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Distribution |
Not found outside India and Southeast Asia; morphologically distinct |
Source: nenow.in
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. With reference to the newly discovered species Barilius imphalensis, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: A Explanation: A new freshwater fish species, Barilius imphalensis, has been discovered in the Imphal River near Manipur University. Belonging to the Cyprinidae family, the species highlights the rich aquatic biodiversity of Northeast India and underscores the need for conservation in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. |
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