Band-tail scorpionfish: A rare fish found across Sethukarai coast in the Gulf of Mannar

  • IASbaba
  • June 1, 2020
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Band-tail scorpionfish: A rare fish found across Sethukarai coast in the Gulf of Mannar

Part of: GS-Prelims and GS-III – Environment; Biodiversity

In News:

  • Researchers at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have found a rare fish from Sethukarai coast in the Gulf of Mannar. 
  • The specimen has been deposited in the National Marine Biodiversity Museum of the CMFRI.

Key takeaways 

  • The band-tail scorpionfish (Scorpaenospsis neglecta) has spines which contain neurotoxic venom
  • When the spines pierce an individual, the venom gets injected immediately and it can be extremely painful. 
  • Eating the fish would lead to death.
  • The fish is well-known for its ability to change colour and blend with its surrounding environment to escape from predators and while preying.
  • This was the first time that the particular species was found alive in Indian waters. 

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 1st May 2020

Image source: The Hindu 

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