Bascanichthys chepakakiensis Latest News
Recently, marine scientists have discovered a new species of snake eel and officially named Bascanichthys chepakakiensis.
About Bascanichthys chepakakiensis
- It is a new species of snake eel discovered in Kakinada fishing harbour in Andhra Pradesh.
- The specific name, chepakakiensis, is a combination of two words from the regional Telugu language: chepa, which means “fish,” and “kaki, a shortened nickname for Kakinada.
- It is the only second time a species of this snake-eel genus has been described from Indian waters.
Features of Bascanichthys chepakakiensis
- It has a distinct bicoloured body.
- It has a noticeably shorter snout, a different tooth arrangement in its jaws, and fewer vertebrae before its anal fin.
- It also possesses incredibly tiny, flap-like pectoral fins that are barely visible.
What are Snake eels?
- Snake eels are members of the family Ophichthidae, and are named for their snake-like appearance
- Habitat: These eels mainly live in sandy areas in shallow seas, however some live in depths to 800m.
- Distribution: They are found in both tropical and temperate waters in oceans around the world.
- The snake eel uses its tail to burrow backward into the sea bottom, creating a protective burrow.
Source: RM
Last updated on June, 2026
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Bascanichthys chepakakiensis FAQs
Q1. . The species Bascanichthys chepakakiensis belongs to which family?+
Q2. Bascanichthys chepakakiensis was discovered in which Indian state?+
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