ICAR-CMFRI Unveils Two New Needlefish Species in Indian Waters

Tags: Science and Technology

Researchers at ICAR-CMFRI discovered two new needlefish species in Indian waters.

An Overview of the News

• Previous identification of flat needlefish (Ablennes hians) revealed to be a complex of at least three distinct species.

New Species:

• Named as Ablennes joseberchmansis and Ablennes gracalii.

• Genetic and molecular analysis confirmed their unique characteristics.

• The discovery was made by researchers at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).

Characteristics and Commercial Value

• Location: Specimens were collected from Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.

• Commercial Value: These fishes are commercially valuable, known for their palatability and nutritional content.

• Identification: They are identifiable by their green spines and elongated beaks with sharp teeth.

• Market Price: They fetch around 400 rupees per kilogramme in the market.

Research Team and Publication

• Contributors: The research team included Dr. Shijin Ameri, Badarul Sijad, and Dr. KK Sajikumar from CMFRI.

• Publication: Their findings were published in the Journal of Regional Studies in Marine Science.

Institutional Background

• ICAR-CMFRI: For over 75 years, ICAR-CMFRI has been a leading research institution in tropical marine fisheries globally.

• Expansion: Over the years, CMFRI has expanded its research facilities and attracted skilled professionals, enhancing its scale and renown.