Daily Current Affairs : 15-July-2024
In an excellent discovery, scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have diagnosed a brand new species of deep-water dogfish shark. The species, named Squalus hima, was discovered off the coast of Kerala along the Arabian Sea. This new species adds to the growing understanding of marine biodiversity and highlights the importance of scientific research in uncovering previously unknown creatures in our oceans.
Misidentification and Analysis
For a long time, Squalus hima was confused with two other species—S. mitsukurii and S. lalannei. These species have similar features, which led to frequent misidentification. However, after conducting detailed research, including morphological, meristic (the study of measurable features), and morphometric (the study of form and structure) analyses, researchers were able to confirm that Squalus hima is, in fact, a distinct species.
Key Differences from Other Species
The new shark species shows several unique traits that set it apart from its relatives:
- Precaudal Vertebrae: The number of vertebrae before the tail differs.
- Total Vertebrae: It has a distinct total count of vertebrae compared to similar species.
- Teeth Count: The number and structure of the teeth also vary.
- Head and Trunk Features: There are differences in the height of the trunk and head.
- Fin Structure and Color: The fins of Squalus hima are shaped and colored differently from those of other species in the genus.
These physical traits provide strong evidence that Squalus hima is a new and separate species within the deep-water dogfish sharks.
Economic Importance
Species of the Squalus genus, including Squalus hima, are of commercial value because of their liver oil. This oil is rich in squalene, a substance in high demand for use in cosmetics and anticancer products. The discovery of Squalus hima could therefore have potential economic implications, particularly in industries that rely on natural sources for their products.
Important Points:
- Discovery of Squalus hima: A new deep-water dogfish shark species discovered off the coast of Kerala, Arabian Sea.
- Misidentification: Squalus hima was often confused with S. mitsukurii and S. lalannei due to similar features.
- Research and Analysis: Detailed morphological, meristic, and morphometric studies confirmed it as a distinct species.
- Unique Features:
- Different number of precaudal and total vertebrae.
- Distinct tooth count and structure.
- Variations in head and trunk height.
- Unique fin structure and color.
- Economic Value: Squalus species, including Squalus hima, are commercially important for their liver oil, rich in squalene, used in cosmetics and anticancer products.
- Importance of Discovery: The finding contributes to marine biodiversity and highlights the need for ongoing research in ocean ecosystems.
Why In News
Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have recently discovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark, named Squalus hima, off the coast of Kerala along the Arabian Sea, marking an exciting addition to the region’s rich marine biodiversity.
MCQs about Discovery of a New Shark Species
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Where was the new species of deep-water dogfish shark, Squalus hima, discovered?
A. Off the coast of Gujarat
B. Off the coast of Kerala
C. In the Bay of Bengal
D. In the Arabian Sea near Mumbai
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What was Squalus hima often confused with before it was identified as a distinct species?
A. Squalus acanthias and Squalus blainville
B. S. mitsukurii and S. lalannei
C. Squalus profundus and Squalus cuvieri
D. Squalus brevipinna and Squalus chondrus
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Which of the following is a key feature that distinguishes Squalus hima from other dogfish shark species?
A. It has a different diet.
B. It has a distinct fin structure and color.
C. It has a larger size compared to other species.
D. It only lives in shallow waters.
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Why are species like Squalus hima economically important?
A. Their meat is used in high-end restaurants.
B. Their liver oil is rich in squalene, used in cosmetics and anticancer products.
C. They are a source of medicinal compounds for human health.
D. They help in the production of marine-based biofuels.
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