Bamboo Shrimp Rediscovered in India After 72 Years

Indian populations of the bamboo shrimp (Atyopsis spinipes) have been rediscovered in Karnataka and Odisha, seventy-two years after the species was first documented. The breakthrough came from researchers at the Centre for Climate Change Studies, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, who undertook extensive surveys across coastal and riverine habitats to confirm the species’ presence.

Rediscovery and Survey Efforts

The renewed search began in 2022 following a report by an aquarium enthusiast in Odisha who encountered a mature bamboo shrimp. Although the specimen was lost before it could be studied, it guided researchers toward potential habitats. Extensive surveys were later conducted across Udupi, Karwar and Mangaluru, focusing on brackish zones with sandy beds, leaf litter and mangrove-lined waterways—conditions suited to the species’ amphidromous lifecycle.

Correcting a Historical Misidentification

Earlier records from 72 years ago had identified the Indian shrimp as Atyopsis mollucensis. Genetic and morphological assessments now indicate that those findings were likely misidentifications. All recently collected samples, including a museum specimen from the Andaman Islands, were confirmed as Atyopsis spinipes. This species’ greater tolerance for salinity and temperature shifts explains its wider distribution across Southeast Asia.

Ecology, Threats and Conservation Needs

Bamboo shrimp are filter feeders that use fan-like appendages to capture food particles from flowing water. Their rediscovery highlights the hidden diversity of India’s freshwater ecosystems, which face increasing threats from sand mining, infrastructure projects and habitat disturbance. The researchers emphasised the urgent need for systematic surveys and genetic validation to prevent misidentification and strengthen conservation strategies.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Atyopsis spinipes rediscovered in Karnataka and Odisha after 72 years.
• The species is amphidromous, with larvae developing in brackish water.
• Earlier Indian records of Atyopsis mollucensis are now considered misidentifications.
• Freshwater habitats are threatened by sand mining, bridge construction and human disturbance.

Aquarium Trade Challenges

The team cautioned that demand from the aquarium trade may threaten wild populations. Despite being sold widely, bamboo shrimp are difficult to breed in captivity, increasing pressure on natural habitats. Researchers stress that awareness, regulation and habitat protection are essential to preserve this rediscovered species and safeguard the broader freshwater biodiversity of India.