Description

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Context

Labeo uru and Labeo chekida are two newly discovered freshwater fish species belonging to the Rohu group (genus Labeo).

These species were discovered by scientists from the ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBFGR).

They were found in the Western Ghats.

Discovered in the Chandragiri River.

Named uru due to its sail-like dorsal fin which resembles a boat (uru in Malayalam).

Locally known as ‘kaka chekida’.

Discovered in the Chalakkudy River.

Smaller in size and has a dark body coloration.

The discovery helped resolve long-standing confusion surrounding Labeo nigrescens a species described in 1870.

All three species (Labeo uru, Labeo chekida, Labeo nigrescens) are now confirmed as distinct based on morphological differences.

Aspect	Details
Scientific Name	Labeo rohita
Habitat	Freshwater rivers, lakes, ponds
Geographical Range	Indian subcontinent (Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Brahmaputra rivers)
Physical Features	Deep-bodied, arched back, silver-colored scales
Length & Weight	Up to 2 meters in length; over 40 kg in natural conditions
Feeding Habit	Herbivorous – feeds on phytoplankton and decaying vegetation
Spawning Period	Monsoon season in flooded rivers
Role in Aquaculture	One of the top three Indian major carps farmed extensively
Economic Importance	Major food fish; supports inland fisheries and rural livelihoods
Cultural Relevance	Widely consumed in eastern India e.g., Bengal, Odisha, Assam

Sources: HINDU

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. With reference to the recently discovered fish species in India consider the following statements:

Labeo uru and Labeo chekida are both newly discovered marine species belonging to the genus Labeo.
Labeo chekida is locally known as 'kaka chekida' and was discovered in the Chalakkudy River.
The discovery of these species helps resolve taxonomic confusion related to Labeo nigrescens.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: C.

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect. The species are freshwater not marine.

Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Labeo chekida is 'kaka chekida' and the discovery clarified the identity of Labeo nigrescens.