Rakthamichthys anchi: New Subterranean Swamp Eel from Assam
12 August 2026
PRERNA FOR IAS
Mehnat Aapki, Guidance Humari
Roz ki Prelims Practice — Experts ke Saath
Rakthamichthys anchi: New Subterranean Swamp Eel from Assam
Context: Scientists have described a new species of blind, groundwater-dwelling swamp eel, Rakthamichthys anchi, from wells in Goalpara district, Assam. The species was formally described in the journal Zootaxa in 2026.
Background: India is increasingly recognised for its unusual subterranean fish diversity. The genus Rakthamichthys includes highly specialised, aquifer-dwelling swamp eels, several of which were earlier known mainly from the Western Ghats. Recent studies have shown substantial hidden genetic diversity among these groundwater fishes, while also warning that their habitats are poorly studied and vulnerable to human disturbance.
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Discover Rakthamichthys anchi, a new blind swamp eel species from Assam's groundwater systems. Learn about this phreatobitic species and groundwater biodiversity conservation.
Keywords
Rakthamichthys anchiswamp eelsubterranean fishAssam biodiversitygroundwater speciesblind eelphreatobiticaquifer ecosystems