Garra zubzaensis and Psilorhynchus kosygini

Garra zubzaensis

About

This new fish species belongs to the Garra genus within the Cyprinidae family, commonly known as torrent minnows. 

Discovery

It was discovered in the Zubza River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra River in Kohima district. 

Habitat

These fish are especially found to live in fast-flowing, rocky streams.

Distribution

It is found in various regions across Asia.

Adaptation

They use their gular discs—sucker-like structures—to cling to surfaces and forage for food in flowing waters.

Characteristics

Garra zubzaensis is distinguished by a weakly developed proboscis, a rounded snout, and a characteristic black V-shaped band on the caudal fin. 

It has 34 lateral-line scales and a streamlined body adapted for life in swift currents. 

Psilorhynchus kosygini

About

This species belongs to the Psilorhynchidae family, commonly known as torrent minnows.

Discovery

It was discovered in the Tepuiki River, a tributary of the Barak River in Nagaland's Peren district.

Habitat

This species is found in the fast-flowing, shaded waters, where it thrives in the river's gravel and rocky substrate.

Adaptation

Like other torrent minnows, Psilorhynchus kosygini is adapted to cling to surfaces in strong currents, allowing it to feed on small invertebrates and organic matter.

Distribution

It is found primarily across South Asia and Southeast Asia.

Characteristics

Psilorhynchus kosygini stands out due to its unique scale arrangement, with 3-4 mid-ventral scales between the pelvic fins and the anal opening. 

The species also has 41-42 lateral-line scales and a distinctive body shape suited for life in torrents.

Torrent Minnow

A torrent minnow is a small freshwater fish belonging to the genus Psilorhynchus within the family Psilorhynchidae. 

These fish are commonly found in fast-flowing streams, particularly in regions with strong currents such as rivers and mountain streams, which is why they are called "torrent" minnows.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Consider the following statements about the “Garra zubzaensis” recently seen in the news: 

1. They are a new fish species of torrent minnows.
2. They were recently discovered in the Barak River.
3. These fish are especially found to live in fast-flowing, rocky streams.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

A.Only one

B.Only two

C. All Three

D.None

Answer: B

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: 

This new fish species belongs to the Garra genus within the Cyprinidae family, commonly known as torrent minnows.

A torrent minnow is a small freshwater fish belonging to the genus Psilorhynchus within the family Psilorhynchidae. 

Statement 2 is incorrect: 

It was discovered in the Zubza River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra River in Kohima district.

Statement 3 is correct: 

These fish are especially found to live in fast-flowing, rocky streams.