BASCANICHTHYS CHEPAKAKIENSIS: NEWLY DISCOVERED SNAKE EEL FROM THE BAY OF BENGAL

Why In News?

Researchers identify a new species of snake eel, Bascanichthys chepakakiensis, at the Kakinada fishing harbour in Andhra Pradesh.

What is Bascanichthys chepakakiensis?

Bascanichthys chepakakiensis is a newly discovered species of snake eel belonging to the Ophichthidae (Snake Eel) family. 

• The name combines the Telugu words "chepa" (fish) and "kaki" (a nickname for Kakinada), honoring the region of its discovery.

Scientists discovered it from fishing bycatch collected near Kakinada Fishing Harbour (Andhra Pradesh) and Arjyapalli coast (Odisha) in the Bay of Bengal.It becomes the 20th known species globally within the genus Bascanichthys, and only the second Bascanichthys species recorded from Indian waters after a gap of nearly six decades.

 Physical Characteristics

• Possesses an extremely long and slender body.
• Exhibits a distinct bicoloured body:
• Pale brown to olive-grey dorsally
• Lighter ventral side.
• Shows a dark brown snout.
• Has a shorter snout than closely related species.
• Contains a unique dental arrangement.
• Possesses fewer vertebrae before the anal fin.
• Features tiny flap-like pectoral fins that are barely visible.

About Snake Eels

These creatures belong to the family Ophichthidae, earning their name from their characteristic snake-like appearance.

Habitat Preferences: They primarily inhabit sandy substrates in shallow seas, though some species thrive at depths reaching 800 meters.

Global Distribution: These eels occupy both tropical and temperate waters across oceans worldwide.

Burrowing Behavior: The snake eel utilizes its tail to burrow backward into the sea bottom, effectively constructing a protective shelter.

Source: researchmatters