Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have identified three new species of hill stream loaches belonging to the genus Indoreonectes. The newly discovered fish were located in wildlife sanctuaries across Telangana and Maharashtra, spanning the Eastern and Western Ghats.
The species include Indoreonectes amrabad, discovered in the Amrabad Tiger Reserve in Telangana’s Eastern Ghats, and two species from Maharashtra’s Western Ghats—Indoreonectes kalsubai, found in Kalsubai Wildlife Sanctuary, and Indoreonectes radhanagari, identified in Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary.
Dr. Shrikant Jadhav, the lead scientist behind the study, explained that these species are distinguished by their unique colorations, such as prominent lateral bands and intricate spotting patterns on their heads. Genetic studies revealed significant variations from previously known species, with divergence rates ranging from 5.1% to 19.3%. Dr. Jadhav emphasized that these findings underscore the ecological significance of safeguarding lesser-known aquatic habitats, both within human settlements and protected regions.
The genus Indoreonectes, endemic to peninsular India, is now represented by eight species—six in the Western Ghats and two in the Eastern Ghats. These loaches are characterized by rounded tail fins, elongated nasal barbels, and abbreviated lateral lines.
Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, Director of ZSI, announced plans to establish a new Eastern Ghats Regional Centre in Amravati, aiming to intensify the exploration and study of the region’s rich biodiversity.
These discoveries reinforce the importance of India’s Ghats as biodiversity hotspots, offering valuable insights into the conservation of aquatic ecosystems.