Pseudecheneis likimroensis and Likimro River

About Pseudecheneis likimroensis

• Pseudecheneis likimroensis is a newly discovered catfish species named after the fast-flowing Likimro River of Nagaland, where it was first collected.
• Local name: The fish is locally known as Nupedro.
• Location: It was discovered in the Likimro River in Kiphire district, Nagaland, along the India–Myanmar border.
• Discovery: Researchers from Kohima Science College and the Zoological Survey of India identified the species.
• Key Features of Pseudecheneis likimroensis:
  • Rheophilic Nature: It belongs to a rheophilic genus of catfishes that is adapted to life in swiftly flowing hill streams.
  • Body Adaptation: It has a dorso-ventrally flattened body that helps it survive in fast-flowing mountain streams.
  • Adhesive Structures: It possesses specialised adhesive organs with ridges separated by grooves that enable it to cling to rocks in strong water currents.
  • Feeding Habit: It is carnivorous and feeds on insects, larvae, and other organisms attached to rocks.
  • Physical Size: The holotype measured about 11.53 cm, while the largest recorded specimen measured about 13.19 cm.

About Likimro River

• Likimro River is a fast-flowing mountain river that supports rich freshwater biodiversity.
• Location: It flows through the eastern part of Kiphire district in Nagaland.
• Origins: The river originates near Mount Saramati, the highest peak in Nagaland.
• Tributary: It is a tributary of the Tizu River, which later joins the Chindwin–Irrawaddy river system in Myanmar.
• Nature: The river has pristine water with many boulders and rocky stretches, making it suitable for hill-stream fishes.