Context:
Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark, Squalus hima, at the Sakthikulangara fishing harbor in Kerala along the Arabian Sea.
Key Highlights
Characteristics of Squalus Hima
- Squalus Hima is a genus of dogfish sharks in the Squalidae family, commonly known as spurdogs, characterized by smooth dorsal fin spines.
- The Squalus megalops group, to which Squalus hima belongs, is 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 spots.
Differentiation from Other Species
- In India, two Squalus species are found along the southwest coast.
- The new species, Squalus hima, is very similar to Squalus lalannei but differs in many characteristics.
- Squalus hima differs from other species in the number of precaudal vertebrae, total vertebrae, teeth count, trunk and head heights, and fin structure and color.
Importance of the Discovery
- The exploitation of Squalus and Centrophorus sharks for their squalene-rich liver oil, in high demand for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and anti-cancer products, underscores the importance of conserving Squalus hima.
- Dogfish sharks are commercially significant for their fins, liver oil, and meat, and are often caught as bycatch.
About the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
- The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) was founded on 1 July 1916 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- The main function of ZSI is to promote survey, exploration, and research leading to the advancement of knowledge on various aspects of the animal life of India.
- Headquarters: Kolkata