Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: DTE
Context: Scientists have discovered a new fish species called Badis limaakumi in the Milak River in Nagaland, India.
- This species, named after Limaakum, an assistant professor and head of the zoology department at Fazl Ali College, Nagaland, is unique in that it can change its colour similar to a chameleon.
About Badis limaakumi:
- Badis limaakumi belongs to the Badidae family and is a freshwater fish commonly found in streams with slow or moderate water flow.
- It is also found in ditches and stagnant water bodies in various countries, including India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Thailand, and Myanmar.
- The new species differs from other members of its family due to distinctive features, such as a dark opercular blotch at the base of its opercular spine and the absence of spots on its sides and cleithrum.
- Fish from the Badis family are known as chameleon fish because of their remarkable ability to change colour, which helps them blend with their surroundings when under stress.
