From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Marbled Cat
Why in the News?
The elusive marbled cat (Pardofelis marmorata) has been spotted in Dehing Patkai National Park in Assam’s Tinsukia district.
AboutMarbled Cat
The marbled cat is a small wild cat species native to South and Southeast Asia.
It belongs to the Felidae family and is closely related to the clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) and the bay cat (Catopuma badia).
The species was first described in 1836 by British zoologist William Charles Linnaeus Martin.
It is characterised by brown, gray, or yellowish fur with distinctive black spots, marbled patterns, and stripes for camouflage.
It is found in dense tropical and subtropical forests at elevations up to 2,500 meters.
It primarily inhabits rainforests, evergreen forests, and mountainous terrain.
It is arboreal, spending a significant amount of time in trees.
It is nocturnal and crepuscular, meaning it is most active at dawn and dusk.
Conservation Status:
IUCN Red List Status: Near Threatened (NT) due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
CITES: Appendix I
About Dehing Patkai National Park
Dehing Patkai NP is located in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam, India, near the border with Arunachal Pradesh.
It spans an area of 231.65 km² and is part of the Dehing Patkai Elephant Reserve. It was upgraded to a national park in 2020 and officially notified in 2021.
The park features the largest stretch of lowland rainforests in India, including Dipterocarp trees, orchids, and medicinal plants like Rauvolfia serpentina and Acorus calamus.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including Bengal tigers, leopards, clouded leopards, Asian elephants, and Hoolock gibbons.
It is unique for hosting seven species of wild cats.
The Dehing River flows through the park, nourishing its forests and contributing to the biodiversity.
Indigenous communities such as the Tai Phake, Khamti, and Singpho tribes have lived in the area for generations, maintaining a close relationship with the forest.
The park is situated in the Patkai Hills region, part of the Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot, known for its rich biodiversity.
Known as the Amazon of the East, Dehing Patkai National Park is famous for its pristine rainforest ecosystems and significant biodiversity.
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following National Parks has a climate that varies from tropical to subtropical, temperate and arctic?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: River Dolphins in India
Why in the News?
India’s first-ever comprehensive river dolphin survey conducted underProject Dolphin (2020) has estimated a population of 6,327 dolphins, primarily across the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus River basins.
River Dolphins in India:
Species
Habitat
Conservation Status
Key Features & Threats
Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica)
Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna & Karnaphuli river systems (India, Bangladesh, Nepal)
IUCN: Endangered WPA, 1972: Schedule I
Known as “Susu”, India’s National Aquatic Animal in 2009. Faces threats from pollution, habitat fragmentation, and accidental bycatch.
Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (Bihar) – Only dolphin sanctuary in India.
Indus River Dolphin (Platanista minor)
Indus River (Pakistan) & Beas River (India)
IUCN: Endangered WPA, 1972: Schedule I
One of the rarest dolphins, facing population decline due to water diversion, dam construction, and habitat degradation.
Beas Conservation Reserve (Punjab) – Focused on Indus River Dolphin protection.
Irrawaddy Dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris)
Chilika Lake (India) & rivers of South & Southeast Asia
IUCN: Endangered WPA, 1972: Schedule I
Known for “spy-hopping” behavior (rising vertically to observe surroundings). Threatened by fishing nets and habitat destruction.
Key Highlights of the Survey
The survey estimated the Ganges River dolphin population at 6,324, with Uttar Pradesh (2,397) and Bihar (2,220) recording the highest numbers, while the Brahmaputra basin had 635 dolphins, indicating a stable population.
The Indus River dolphin population was found to be critically low, with only 3 individuals recorded in the Beas River in Punjab, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.
Key habitats were identified, with the highest dolphin concentrations observed in the Bhind-Pachnadastretch of the Chambal River and the Chausa-Maniharistretch of the Ganga.
Dolphins were found to prefer deep water zones, confluences, mid-channel islands, and meandering sections of rivers, indicating specific habitat requirements.
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gharial
Why in the News?
Madhya Pradesh CM released 10 gharials into the Chambal River at the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary in Morena.
About Gharial
The gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is a unique species of crocodilian, characterized by its long, slender snout, which is perfectly adapted for catching fish.
The species derives its name from the “ghara”, a bulbous growth found on the snouts of adult males, which aids in vocalization and mating displays.
It is a fish-eating crocodile native to the Indian subcontinent.
They are a crucial indicator of clean river water.
Conservation Status:
Recognizing the rapid decline in gharial populations, India launched captive breeding and release programs in the late 1970s.
Between 1975 and 1982, the country established 16 captive breeding centers and 5 protected sanctuaries to ensure the survival of the species.
Gharials are ‘Critically Endangered’ in the IUCN Red List of Species.
The species is also listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Today, gharials primarily survive in 5 major refuges:
National Chambal Sanctuary (NCS) – The largest stronghold of gharials.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Loggerhead Turtles
Why in the News?
A new study in Nature reveals that loggerhead turtles can learn and remember the magnetic signature of an area, using Earth’s geomagnetic field for navigation during long migrations.
About Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta)
Loggerhead Sea Turtles belong to the Cheloniidae family, widely distributed across the world’s oceans.
They are commonly found in Atlantic, Pacific, Indian Oceans, and the Mediterranean Sea.
They Spends most of its life in saltwater and estuarine habitats, coming ashore only to nest.
They are omnivorous, feeding primarily on bottom-dwelling invertebrates.
It is listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
International trade banned under CITES Appendix I.
Significance of the study
Loggerhead turtles travel thousands of kilometers across oceans and return to the same feeding and nesting sites.
Their ability to store magnetic memories helps them navigate vast distances, reinforcing the hypothesis that other migratory species may also rely on Earth’s magnetic field.
PYQ:
[2019] Consider the following statements:
Some species of turtles are herbivores.
Some species of fish are herbivores.
Some species of marine mammals are herbivores.
Some species of snakes are viviparous.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mosquitofishes
Why in the News?
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought a response from the Central government regarding the use of two highly invasive and alien fish species—Gambusia affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia reticulata (Guppy)—as biological agents for mosquito control in multiple states.
Both species are classified as “invasive and alien” by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA).
About Gambusia Affinis (Western Mosquitofish)
It has been widely introduced worldwide as a biological control agent to reduce mosquito populations.
The mosquitofish primarily feeds on mosquito larvae, small insects, and zooplankton.
Despite its intended benefits, Gambusia affinis has been identified as one of the world’s most invasive species.
It is highly aggressive and competes with native fish for resources.
It also preys on the eggs and juveniles of indigenous fish, amphibians, and invertebrates, leading to a decline in local biodiversity.
The Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) has listed it among the 100 worst invasive species globally due to its harmful ecological impact.
About Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy, Millionfish, Rainbow Fish)
Poecilia reticulata, commonly known as the Guppy, Millionfish, or Rainbow Fish, is a small freshwater fish native to Northern South America and the Caribbean.
It is widely recognized for its vibrant colors and adaptability, making it a popular choice for both aquarium enthusiasts and mosquito control programs worldwide.
It is a highly adaptable species, capable of surviving in a variety of freshwater environments.
Guppies are omnivorous, feeding on mosquito larvae, small insects, algae, and organic detritus.
Their feeding habits make them a common choice for mosquito control programs, although their effectiveness is still debated.
While guppies are less aggressive than mosquitofish, their population growth can still disrupt local ecosystems.
PYQ:
[2023] ‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following?
(a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
(b) Converting crop residues into packing material
(c) Producing biodegradable plastics
(d) Producing biochar from thermo-chemical conversion of biomass
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indian Bison (Gaur)
Why in the News?
The Jharkhand Forest department has initiated a study to revive the dwindling population of Bison, popularly known as Gaur, at Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR).
About Indian Bison (Gaur)
Details
Largest and tallest species in the wild cattle family.
Scientific Name: Bos gaurus.
Indigenous to South and Southeast Asia.
Species Habitat and Location
Found in evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests with open grasslands.
Prefers hilly terrains below 1,500–1,800 m with abundant water.
Distributed across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand.
Behavioural Features
Social animals living in herds of 30–40 individuals.
Strong and sturdy limbs, short tails, and inward-curved pale green/yellowish-brown horns.
Males weigh 600–1,500 kg; females weigh 400–1,000 kg.
Convex-shaped forehead; height ranges from 170–230 cm.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.
CITES: Appendix I.
PYQ:
[2011] A sandy and saline area is the natural habitat of an Indian animal species. The animal has no predators in that area but its existence is threatened due to the destruction of its habitat. Which one of the following could be that animal?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Common Noctule Bats (Nyctalus noctula)
Why in the News?
The Common Noctule Bats are surf over the storm winds when they migrate thousands of miles across continents, reveals new research.
About the Common Noctule Bats (Nyctalus noctula)
The common noctule bat (Nyctalus noctula) is one of the largest bat species in Europe.
It has a body length of 7–9 cm, a wingspan of 32–40 cm, and weighs between 18–40 grams.
Its fur is reddish-brown to golden-brown, darker on the back and lighter underneath, while its wings are long and narrow, designed for fast and sustained flight.
Features:
Common noctules are known for their swift and high-altitude flight, reaching heights of up to 3,000 meters.
They are primarily insectivorous, feeding on moths, beetles, and other flying insects.
Their echolocation abilities allow them to detect and hunt prey with precision, even in complete darkness.
Although classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, common noctule bats face several threats, including habitat loss due to deforestation and urbanization.
Habitat:
The common noctule bat is widely distributed across Europe, North Africa, and Asia, extending into Siberia and parts of China.
It is migratory, especially in central and eastern Europe, traveling long distances between summer breeding sites and winter hibernation sites.
It inhabits forests and woodlands, where it uses hollow trees for roosting, as well as urban areas, where it often roosts in buildings, attics, and bat boxes.
These bats also thrive in wetlands and grasslands, hunting over water bodies and open fields where insect populations are abundant.
PYQ:
[2012] Consider the following kinds of organisms:
1. Bat
2. Bee
3. Bird
Which of the above is/are pollinating agent/agents?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Zebrafish
Why in the News?
A recent research revealed that the Zebrafish (a popular aquarium fish) can regenerate damaged heart muscle within 60 days, a capability absent in humans. The Hmga1 protein plays a key role in this process, offering potential insights for heart repair in mammals.
Discovery of Hmga1’s Role in Zebrafish Heart Regeneration:
In zebrafish, the Hmga1 protein plays a pivotal role in activating dormant genes necessary for regeneration.
It removes molecular “roadblocks” on chromatin (DNA-packaging structures), shifting genes from an inactive state to active regeneration mode.
The Hmga1 gene, active during embryonic development in mice and humans, becomes inactive after birth.
In zebrafish, however, the gene remains active during heart regeneration, enabling the repair process.
About Zebrafish
Zebrafish are small freshwater fish measuring 2-3 cm in length.
It is named for the horizontal blue stripes running along their bodies.
It is native to South Asia’s Indo-Gangetic plains and is commonly found in paddy fields, stagnant water, and streams.
It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Features of Zebrafish
Zebrafishes are known for their ability to regenerate almost all major organs, including the heart, brain, eyes, and spinal cord.
This unique trait makes them an important model in developmental biology and disease research.
They share approximately 70% of their genes with humans.
Over 80% of human disease-related genes have counterparts in zebrafish, making them valuable for studying genetic disorders.
They produce hundreds of embryos in a single clutch, enabling large-scale studies.
They are now preferred over rodent (guinea pigs) models for certain vertebrate development studies.
Widely used for regenerative biology and drug discovery due to their cost-effectiveness and rapid breeding.
The Border Security Force (BSF) has rescued a Serval, the African wild cat (Leptailurus serval) from an alleged wildlife smuggling attempt along the India-Bangladesh border.
AboutAfrican Wild Cat (Leptailurus serval):
Details
About
Scientific Name: Leptailurus serval
Common Name: African Wild Cat, Serval
Family: Felidae
Physical Description: Medium-sized wild cat with a slim, long-legged body, tawny coat with black spots and stripes, and large rounded ears. Can leap 3 meters (10 feet) vertically.
Habitat and Features
Found across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Preferred Habitats: Savannahs, grasslands, and wetlands; avoids arid regions and dense forests.
Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Uses acute hearing to hunt.
Behavior: Solitary, nocturnal or crepuscular, and communicates through vocalizations and scent-marking.
Reproduction: Breeds year-round, with 2–3 kittens per litter; gestation period is 74 days.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Listed as Least Concern.
CITES: Included in Appendix II to regulate trade.
Threats: Habitat loss, illegal hunting for fur, and conflicts with humans (e.g., poultry attacks).
PYQ:
[2015] With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct?
IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments.
IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lion-Tailed Macaque
Why in the News?
A new study highlights that increased food provisioning and habituation to human presence endanger the lion-tailed macaque, a endangered species found only in the Western Ghats of India. Roads crossing the macaque habitats in eight key locations—Anamalai Hills, Nelliyampathy, Nilambur Ghats, Sholayar, Gavi, Sabarimala, Vallimalai Hills, and Agumbe—have facilitated frequent human-animal interaction.
Note: The mention of this species as a ‘critically endangered’ is a metaphor used in the newspaper. It does not represent its original IUCN Red List status.
AboutLion-tailed macaque
Details
Scientific Name: Macaca silenus
Also known as: Lion-tailed macaque, Wanderoo, Bearded Monkey
Has black fur with a distinctive gray or silver mane around the face (in both sexes), often referred to as the “beard ape.”
Threats: Habitat loss, hunting, and wood harvesting
Significance: Indicator of rainforest health and an umbrella species for conserving other wildlife in its region.
Habitat
Endemic to the Western Ghats in India (states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu).
Primarily tropical evergreen rainforests, but they are also found in monsoon forests.
Behavioral Features
Shy and Avoidant: Unlike other macaques, they tend to avoid humans when possible.
Arboreal and Diurnal: Spend most of their time in trees and are active during daylight.
Communication: Possess up to 17 vocalizations; males define territory boundaries through calls.
Diet: Primarily frugivorous, but also consume leaves, stems, flowers, buds, fungi, and occasionally small animals.
Conservation Status
IUCN: Endangered
CITES: Appendix I
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India): Schedule I
(Estimated 4,200 individuals remaining)
PYQ:
[2013] In which of the following States is lion-tailed macaque found in its natural habitat?
1. Tamil Nadu
2. Kerala
3. Karnataka
4. Andhra Pradesh
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Olive Ridley Turtles
Why in the News?
Carcasses of Olive Ridley turtles have been found along the Visakhapatnam coast during their breeding season, raising concerns about their conservation.
AboutOlive Ridley Turtles:
Details
Olive Ridley turtles are sea turtles known for their olive-colored carapace.
They are carnivorous, primarily feeding on jellyfish, crustaceans, and mollusks.
Unique mass nesting behavior (Arribada), where thousands of females lay eggs in synchronized waves on the same beach.
Their Habitat and Protection Status
Found in the warm waters of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans.
Largest rookery (breeding colony) is at Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, Odisha, India.
Other major nesting sites include Devi River mouth (discovered in 1981) and Rushikulya river mouth (discovered in 1994).
Protection Status:
IUCN Status: Vulnerable
CITES: Appendix I (No international trade)
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (Highest level of protection)
Conservation Efforts
Project Olivia by Indian Coastguard to protect the Olive Ridley turtles, especially after the Gahirmatha rookery recognition.
Legal protections and environmental regulations safeguard nesting sites and prevent poaching.
Olive Ridley Protection Program ensures the safety of nests and hatchlings.
PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Microhyla nilphamariensis frog
Why in the News?
A study highlights that endemic frog species, like the Nilphamari narrow-mouthed frog (Microhyla nilphamariensis), face challenges due to habitat loss and land use changes in agroforestry habitats like orchards and paddy fields.
About theNilphamari narrow-mouthed frog:
Details
About
A species of narrow-mouthed frog, characterized by a small size, narrow triangular mouth, and reduced webbing between toes.
It has light brown dorsal coloration with a dark brown diamond-shaped marking.
(Not listed by either IUCN or CITES.)
Geographical Location
Found in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and northern Pakistan.
Habitat and Challenges
Prefers moist environments like grassy fields near ephemeral pools.
Faces challenges due to habitat loss and land use changes, particularly in agroforestry areas like orchards and paddy fields.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: King Cobra and its distinct species
Why in the News?
A 12-year study by researchers from the Kalinga Centre for Rainforest Ecology has revealed that the king cobra, previously believed to be a single species, actually comprises four distinct species.
Important facts related to King Cobra:
Details
About
• Scientific Name: Ophiophagus hannah.
• It is the largest Venomous Snake; Reaches up to 18 feet (5.5 meters).
• Venom is Neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system.
Re-categorization
Kalinga Centre for Rainforest Ecology identified the species as:
Species differ by 1-4% genetically, justifying their reclassification.
Habitat and Behavioural Features
• Found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions ( India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and the Philippines)
• Solitary and territorial, with a diet of snakes, lizards, birds, and rodents.
• Mating occurs annually during monsoon, with females laying up to 40 eggs in nests.
• Raises and spreads its hood when threatened, appearing larger.
• Vital in controlling snake populations and maintaining ecological balance.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
CITES: Appendix II.
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule II.
PYQ:
[2010] King Cobra is the only snake that makes its own nest. Why does it make its nest?
(a) It is a snake-eater and the nest helps attract other snakes
(b) It is a viviparous snake and needs a nest to give birth to its offspring
(c) It is an oviparous snake and lays its eggs in the nest and guards the nest until they are hatched
(d) It is a large, cold-blooded animal and needs a nest to hibernate in the cold season
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Corpse flower
Why in the News?
The study of Corpse Flower’s (Amorphophallus titanum) heat generation and odor emission has revealed how it attracts pollinators through unique adaptations for reproduction.
About theCorpse Flower (Titan Arum):
Details
Scientific Name
Amorphophallus titanum
Habitat
Rainforests of western Sumatra, Indonesia
Features
Grows up to 10-12 feet in height.
Blooms once every 5-10 years; bloom lasts 24-48 hours.
Carrion-feeding insects (flies, beetles) are attracted by smell and heat.
Strong smell of rotting flesh to attract pollinators;
Smells like cheese, garlic, decaying fish, sweaty socks, and feces
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Swallowtail Butterfly
Why in the News?
A recent study has found that the overexploitation of medicinal plants, is threatening the survival of swallowtail butterflies in the forest habitats of Assam’s Bodoland Territorial Region.
AboutSwallowtail Butterfly
Details
Family and Species
Family: Papilionidae
Global species: 573
Indian species: 77
Characteristics
Large size, brightly colored wings, tail-like extensions on hindwings
Strong fliers, diurnal, territorial behavior, feed on nectar
Distribution
Found in tropical and temperate regions of Asia, Africa, Americas
Habitat in India
Found in rainforests, woodlands, cultivated lands, and protected areas like the Western Ghats and Northeast India
Host Plants
Depend on specific plants like Rutaceae, Aristolochiaceae, Lauraceae, and Magnoliaceae families for larval development
Threats
Host plants, especially medicinal plants, are being overexploited in areas like the Bodoland Territorial Region
Deforestation, illegal cattle farming, agriculture, tree felling, and pesticide use
Swallowtail Conservation Action Plan (SCAP)
Purpose
To protect and conserve endangered swallowtail species and prevent their extinction
Focus Area
Focuses on habitat protection, host plant conservation, and population restoration
Swallowtail-Rich Zones
Northeastern India designated as a key zone for swallowtail conservation under SCAP
Legal Protection
12 swallowtail species in India are under federal protection;
Some species are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act.
Community Role
SCAP involves local communities in protecting host plants and preventing activities like illegal cattle grazing
PYQ:
[2016] Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as ‘State Butterfly’?
Bridge gaps in health, education, and livelihoods; enhance infrastructure in PVTG communities aligned with existing schemes from nine ministries.
Total Outlay
Rs 24,104 crore over three years
Rs 15,000 crore allocated under the Development Action Plan for the Scheduled Tribes (DAPST) for the housing component over three years.
Implementation
Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes designed to enhance socio-economic conditions of PVTGs.
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs through the State Governments/ UT Administration/departments have undertaken habitation level data collection exercise through PM Gati Shakti mobile application to estimate PVTG population figures and infrastructure gaps under PM-JANMAN Mission.
Coverage
Targets 75 PVTGs in 18 states and 1 Union Territory, focusing on health, education, and livelihoods.
Competitive Federalism
Performance-based ranking of districts; top districts and Ministries recognized and rewarded for outstanding performance.
PYQ:
[2017] What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)?
[2019] Consider the following statements about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India:
PVTGs reside in 18 States and one Union Territory.
A stagnant or declining population is one of the criteria for determining PVTG status.
There are 95 PVTGs officially notified in the country so far.
Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are included in the list of PVTGs.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 2 and 4
(d) 1, 3 and 4
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Squalus hima
Why in the News?
Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark, Squalus hima, from the Sakthikulangara fishing harbour in Kerala along the Arabian Sea.
About Squalus hima
Squalus is a genus of dogfish sharks in the family Squalidae, commonly known as spurdogs, characterized by smooth dorsal fin spines.
The new species, Squalus hima sp. nov., has been misidentified with S. mitsukurii and S. lalannei in the past.
Squalus hima differs from other species by the number of precaudal vertebrae, total vertebrae, teeth count, trunk and head heights, fin structure, and fin colour.
Comparison with Other Species
On the Indian coast, two species of Squalus are found from the southwest coast of India.
The new species, Squalus hima n.sp., is very similar to Squalus lalannei but differs in many characteristics.
Species in the Squalus megalops group are characterized by an angular short snout, a small mouth almost as wide as the snout, the first dorsal fin origin behind the pectoral fins, and a body without any spots.
Economic and Conservation Implications
Sharks in the genus Squalus and Centrophorus are exploited for their liver oil, which contains high levels of squalene, used in high-end cosmetic and anti-cancer products.
Fishermen from southern India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands harvest these sharks for their liver oil, making conservation of these species critical.
Importance of the Discovery
The discovery of Squalus hima is significant for the conservation of shark species exploited for commercial purposes.
Dogfish sharks are commercially important for their fins, liver oil, and meat and are sometimes caught as by-catch in fisheries targeting other species.
