Two new fishes in Pipe-gar fish category discovered by CMFRI researchers

KOCHI: Two new species of Garfish/Pipefish have been added to Indian marine fish wealth. The new fish was discovered by researchers at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). A detailed genetic study confirmed that these are fishes that have not yet been scientifically identified in India.

The scientific names of the new fish are Ablennes Josbergmensis and Ablennes Graceali. The fishes were discovered by Toji Thomas, who is conducting research under the supervision of Principal Scientist Dr EM Abdusamad. One fish was named Ablenness Graceali after Toji's mother Gracie and friend Alina. The scientific name Ablennes Josbergmensis was coined based on the names of the school he attended and the teacher who taught him. Dr Shijin Ameri, Badrul Sijad and Dr KK Sajikumar also participated in the research. The study was published in the journal Regional Studies in Marine Science.

Nutritious

Garfish/Pipefish are nutritious and tasty due to their high protein content. There is a high demand for these commercially important fish. These fish are mainly caught on baits and have green bones and sharp mouths. It costs Rs 400 per kg in the market. Abundantly found on the coasts of Tamilnadu.