Big discovery from Arabian Sea depths. Researchers from ICAR Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) found new deep-sea fish species,expanding known marine life in Indian waters.
The species, named Cyttopsis indica or Indian dory, was discovered on continental slope of eastern Lakshadweep Sea. It lives 350-500 meters deep off southern Kerala coast.
This find points to ecological importance of India's deep waters,an area needing more study. Dr. R. Ratheesh Kumar's team based research on six specimens from Sakthikulangara fishing harbour in Kollam. Much more to explore in these waters .
Using traditional taxonomy and advanced DNA sequencing, scientists confirmed this fish as different from known species. This clears up old taxonomic confusion — what was thought to be Cyttopsis rosea in Indian Ocean now identified as a separate species.
Genetic tests showed key differences between Indian and Atlantic specimens,leading to formal naming of Indian Ocean population as Cyttopsis indica. Meanwhile, Cyttopsis rosea remains an Atlantic resident.
Research published in latest Indian Journal of Fisheries adds insights into India's marine life studies. Findings stress need for more deep-sea exploration off Kerala and Lakshadweep Sea. Many species likely still hidden there.
Such research crucial for understanding deep-sea biodiversity. It can support future conservation and fisheries management efforts. Cyttopsis indica discovery reminds us of the vast, yet mostly uncharted, marine life in India's oceans…
