A species of snakehead fish thought to be extinct for 85 years has been rediscovered in the Himalayan region of India. The Chel snakehead, or Channa amphibeus, was last seen in the 1930s but remained undetected until recently. Researchers found three specimens and photographic evidence of the fish on the banks of the Chel River in West Bengal.
The discovery confirms that the species persisted over the last century despite being thought to have died out. The Chel snakehead is known for its bright green scales and yellow stripes, and is considered the most elusive of the snakeheads. Its rediscovery reinforces the importance of continued exploration and highlights the persistence of biodiversity.
The species was first suspected to be extinct after a collection of specimens between 1918 and 1933, but recent findings have proven that it survived in secret. Researchers believe that local tribes may have been consuming the fish without realizing its value as an endangered species. The rediscovery is attributed to the Mumbai-based wildlife conservation group, Thackeray Wildlife Foundation, which worked tirelessly to locate the fish.
This remarkable discovery highlights the importance of continued exploration and conservation efforts to preserve biodiversity. The Chel snakehead’s rediscovery serves as a reminder that even in species once thought lost to time, there may still be hope for survival and preservation.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/International/researchers-rediscovered-elusive-fish-species-thought-extinct-85/story?id=118895751