Researchers Uncover Hidden Fish Species in Bahuda Estuary
A team of scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has made a significant discovery. They have identified a new species of flounder fish in the Bahuda estuary, located in Odisha’s Ganjam district. The finding challenges previous understandings of fish biodiversity in the region. It highlights the power of modern genetic tools in uncovering hidden species. The newly named fish, Pseudorhombus bahudaensis, was previously mistaken for a widespread relative.
Distinguishing the New Species Through DNA
For years, scientists believed that the Gangetic largetooth flounder (Pseudorhombus arsius) was a single species found across the Indo-Pacific. However, the ZSI researchers suspected there might be more complexity. They combined traditional methods like measuring physical features (morphology and morphometrics) with advanced DNA barcoding and phylogenetic analysis.
This integrated approach revealed a hidden truth. What appeared to be one species was actually composed of multiple distinct genetic lineages. The team identified two major groups. One corresponds to the known P. arsius. The other represents the newly discovered P. bahudaensis. According to lead scientist Anil Mohapatra, genetic analysis suggests these two species diverged around 17 million years ago. This ancient evolutionary split was masked by their similar physical appearance. Critically, the genetic sequence of the Bahuda flounder does not match any existing P. arsius records in global databases. This confirms its status as a unique and likely endemic species.
Ecological and Fisheries Implications
The species was first identified in the Bahuda estuary, which lies along the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border. Researchers later observed it in other coastal areas like Gopalpur and Penthakata near Puri. The discovery underscores the ecological significance of the Bahuda estuary. It acts as a biodiversity hotspot within the western Bay of Bengal.
This finding also has direct consequences for fisheries management. Flounders are commercially valuable fish. Accurate species identification is crucial for regulating fishing practices sustainably. Mistaking P. bahudaensis for the more common P. arsius could lead to mismanagement of fish stocks. This research highlights India's growing contribution to marine biodiversity science. It demonstrates how modern techniques can refine our knowledge of the natural world.
