GUWAHATI: Scientists have discovered two previously unknown subterranean fish species in wells in Assam’s Goalpara district and announced the rediscovery of Ardisia colorata, a shrub not recorded for 204 years. The findings highlight Assam’s little-explored biodiversity, from underground groundwater ecosystems to plant species that have remained undocumented for centuries.
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The newly described fish species are Gitchak nakana and Rakthamichthys anchi. Both inhabit underground groundwater environments.
Gitchak nakana is a tiny, blind loach measuring around two centimetres. Its transparent body gives it a reddish appearance as its blood and internal organs are visible through its skin.
Rakthamichthys anchi, meanwhile, is a slender, transparent, eel-like fish belonging to the swamp eel family. The species is adapted to life in underground groundwater habitats.
The specimens were collected by researcher Wimarithy K. Marak, who shared a photograph of one of the fish with her supervisor.
The second species was discovered after one of Marak’s relatives came across another subterranean fish while cleaning a well, the minister said.
The findings involved collaboration with international scientists. Researchers used micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) scanning to examine the specimens in detail and study their anatomical features.
The discoveries highlight the diversity of life surviving in underground freshwater systems, which remain relatively unexplored and may be vulnerable to changes in groundwater quality and habitat conditions.
Alongside the fish discoveries, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also announced the rediscovery of Ardisia colorata, a shrub that had not been recorded for 204 years.
The findings bring attention to Assam’s rich biodiversity and the importance of documenting and protecting lesser-known species and ecosystems.
