Garra nambashiensis
The discovery of a new freshwater fish species in Manipur marks addition to the region’s rich biodiversity. Named *Garra nambashiensis*, this species was found in the Taretlok River, a tributary of the Chindwin River near Nambashi Valley in Kamjong district. The research was led by Dr Bungdon Shangningam from Dhanamanjuri University, Imphal. This finding enhances understanding of freshwater ecosystems in Northeast India and neighbouring Myanmar.
Discovery and Habitat
*Garra nambashiensis* was located in fast-flowing shallow river sections called riffles. These areas had gravel beds covered with algae and a mixed substrate of cobbles, boulders, sand, fine silt, and coarse sediments. The habitat supports diverse aquatic life due to its oxygen-rich and clean water conditions. The Taretlok River lies close to the Indo-Myanmar border, denoting transboundary biodiversity.
Physical Characteristics
- The species has a distinctive quadrate-shaped proboscis.
- It possesses 7 to 8 acanthoid tubercles on the anterolateral margin and black spots on the opercle (a bony plate covering the gills).
- The dorsal fin has 8 to 11 scales. Six black stripes extend to the hypural plate at the tail base.
- Adults measure between 90 and 140 millimetres. Locally, it is called Nutungnu.
Taxonomy and Classification
*Garra nambashiensis* belongs to the Labeonine family, a group known for bottom-dwelling fish adapted to fast currents. It is part of the proboscis species group within the genus *Garra*. This group is defined by the presence of a fleshy or bony projection on the snout. The newly described species adds to the 60 known *Garra* species in the Northeast Indian river systems.
Significance
The Northeast region, including river systems like the Chindwin, Brahmaputra, Barak, and Kaladan, hosts a rich variety of *Garra* species. Thirty-two species belong to the proboscis group. The Chindwin River system alone has eight *Garra* species, including the recently identified *Garra chingaiensis*. This diversity reflects the complex ecological niches and evolutionary processes in the area.
Conservation Implications
The discovery puts stress on the importance of continued ichthyological surveys in Northeast India. It also marks the need for conserving freshwater habitats vulnerable to pollution and habitat alteration. Such findings aid in understanding species distribution and inform conservation strategies across political boundaries, especially near border rivers.
Previous Discoveries by the Research Team
Dr Bungdon Shangningam’s team previously identified *Pethia poiensis* in 2018 from the Challou River, Ukhrul district. This indicates ongoing efforts to document freshwater fish diversity in Manipur. The research contributes to the global knowledge of freshwater biodiversity hotspots.
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