Scientists in the center for a peninsula water genetic resources, Kochi, from the National Authority for Genetic Resources, which were claimed to have discovered two new types of freshwater fish from Western Ghats – Elbeo Uru and Elbeo Chekida, solving the taxonomic identity of the Elbeo Nigresses, which was the first time in 1870.
The team led by VS Basheer used a morphological analysis with historical samples and fresh samples from the Keral and Karnataka river to clarify identities. The Elbeo Uru, named after the traditional wooden DHOW for its elongated fins, was found in the Chandragiri River, said a press release on Wednesday (April 23). The team had researchers RG Kumar and R. Charan as their members.
Elbeo
The Elbeo Chekida, a small, dark body fish known locally as “Chekida cocoa”, inhabits the river Chalakuda. Both species, endemic for their relevant river systems, emphasize the role of Western Ghats as a hotspot of biodiversity.
The study also confirmed the true identity of the Elbeonigrens, distinguishes it from similar species through unique features such as the side line and different scale patterns. Each river can have unique life forms here, said the research team, warning that dams and destruction of habitats threaten such fragile ecosystems. Scientists stressed that Western Ghats would have more new species and that a collective effort was needed to discover new species.
Published – April 23 2025 20:20 is
