Awaous Motla:Unveiling Odisha’s Vibrant Freshwater Gem: What You Should Know

Daily Current Affairs : 3-November-2023

In a remarkable scientific breakthrough, researchers have recently uncovered a new edible freshwater fish called Awaous Motla in the markets of western Odisha. This discovery is the result of ongoing research efforts funded by the Department of Science and Technology of the Odisha government. Awaous Motla, characterized by its vibrant yellow-colored body and distinctive fleshy upper lip, was found in the Mahanadi River, one of India’s prominent east-flowing peninsular rivers.

Awaous Motla: A Fascinating Species:

Awaous Motla, part of the ‘Awaous’ family (Oxudercidae), gets its name from its taxonomic classification. Its vibrant appearance and unique features make it a fascinating addition to the aquatic biodiversity. Key points about Awaous Motla include:

• Vibrant yellow-colored body
• Distinctive fleshy upper lip
• Belongs to the ‘Awaous’ family (Oxudercidae)

Mahanadi River: A Natural Habitat:

The Mahanadi River, where Awaous Motla was discovered, holds immense geographical and ecological significance. Originating in the Sihawa range of hills in Chhattisgarh, this river flows southeast through Chhattisgarh and Odisha, forming a vital lifeline for the regions it traverses. Key details about the Mahanadi River include:

• Flows through Chhattisgarh and Odisha
• Bounded by Central India hills to the north, Eastern Ghats to the south and east, and Maikal hill range to the west
• Notable tributaries: Seonath River, Jonk River, Hasdeo River, Mand River, Ib River, Ong River, Telen River

Significance of the Discovery:

The discovery of Awaous Motla in the Mahanadi River is significant for several reasons:

• Enhances biodiversity: Adds to the rich aquatic life of the Mahanadi River, contributing to the region’s biodiversity.
• Economic impact: Provides a new edible fish variety for local communities, potentially boosting the local economy through fisheries.
• Scientific research: Offers valuable insights for researchers studying the river’s ecosystem and its inhabitants.

Important Points:

• Awaous Motla, a vibrant edible freshwater fish, discovered in the markets of western Odisha
• Ongoing research efforts funded by the Department of Science and Technology of the Odisha government led to the discovery
• Awaous Motla characterized by its vibrant yellow-colored body and distinctive fleshy upper lip
• Belongs to the ‘Awaous’ family (Oxudercidae) and found in the Mahanadi River
• Mahanadi River is a significant east-flowing peninsular river in India, originating in the Sihawa range of hills in Chhattisgarh
• River’s course takes it southeast through Chhattisgarh and Odisha, bordered by Central India hills to the north, Eastern Ghats to the south and east, and Maikal hill range to the west
• Notable tributaries of Mahanadi River include Seonath River, Jonk River, Hasdeo River, Mand River, Ib River, Ong River, and Telen River
• Discovery of Awaous Motla enhances biodiversity in the Mahanadi River, contributing to the region’s aquatic life
• Economic impact: Awaous Motla provides a new edible fish variety, potentially boosting the local economy through fisheries
• Scientific significance: Awaous Motla’s discovery offers valuable insights for researchers studying the river’s ecosystem and its inhabitants
• Importance of conservation efforts highlighted, emphasizing the need to preserve unique species and their ecosystems.

Why In News

Recently, a group of scientists made a groundbreaking discovery in the markets of western Odisha – they found an edible freshwater fish previously unknown to the region. This remarkable find not only expands our knowledge of the local aquatic ecosystem but also offers new culinary possibilities for the community.

MCQs about Awaous Motla

1. What is the distinctive feature of Awaous Motla?
   A. Vibrant green-colored body
   B. Distinctive fleshy upper lip
   C. Spiny fins
   D. Silver scales
   Show Answer
   Correct Answer: B. Distinctive fleshy upper lip
   Explanation: Awaous Motla is characterized by its distinctive fleshy upper lip, setting it apart from other fish species.
2. Where was Awaous Motla discovered?
   A. Godavari River
   B. Brahmaputra River
   C. Mahanadi River
   D. Yamuna River
   Show Answer
   Correct Answer: C. Mahanadi River
   Explanation: Awaous Motla was discovered in the Mahanadi River, a significant east-flowing river in India.
3. Which department funded the research leading to the discovery of Awaous Motla?
   A. Department of Fisheries
   B. Department of Agriculture
   C. Department of Science and Technology of the Odisha government
   D. Department of Environment
   Show Answer
   Correct Answer: C. Department of Science and Technology of the Odisha government
   Explanation: Ongoing research efforts that led to the discovery of Awaous Motla were funded by the Department of Science and Technology of the Odisha government.
4. What significance does the discovery of Awaous Motla hold for local communities?
   A. Adds colorful aesthetics to the river
   B. Boosts agricultural productivity
   C. Enhances biodiversity and provides a new edible fish variety
   D. Promotes tourism in the region
   Show Answer
   Correct Answer: C. Enhances biodiversity and provides a new edible fish variety
   Explanation: The discovery of Awaous Motla enriches the biodiversity of the Mahanadi River and provides a new edible fish variety, potentially benefiting local communities through fisheries.

Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions