Three new fish species spotted using tools in the Laccadive Sea

Source-This post on Three new fish species spotted using tools in the Laccadive Sea is based on the article “Three new fish species spotted using tools in the Laccadive Sea” published in “The Hindu” on 16th April 2024.

Why in the News?

Three fish species in the Laccadive Sea have been spotted using tools.

About the experiment

All three species used live or dead coral structures as anvils to break the hard shells of sea urchins, so they could get to the edible bits inside.

Why does finding matter?

1. Tool usage among fish has predominantly been observed in just 18 species of the wrasse family (Labridae), which vary in size, prey, and location.

2. Reports of chimpanzees using straws to drink water and crows using leaves to retrieve insects from crevices are well-documented. However, there are rare instances of aquatic animals using tools and there is a common perception that fish possess lower intelligence.

3. This study underscores the need for thorough and frequent underwater observations. Such insights are vital for exploring broader questions about animal intelligence and ecological dynamics.

About Laccadive Sea

1. The Laccadive Sea, also known as the Lakshadweep Sea, is a body of water bordering India (including its Lakshadweep islands), the Maldives, and Sri Lanka.

2. It is located to the southwest of Karnataka, to the west of Kerala, and to the south of Tamil Nadu.

3. There are numerous coral reefs in the Laccadive Sea, including the Lakshadweep islands, which host an impressive 105 coral species.

4. The Gulf of Mannar, within the Laccadive Sea, has been renowned for its pearl banks of Pinctada radiata and Pinctada fucata for over two thousand years.

5. The sea also supports the collection of Shankha mollusks (Xancus pyrum), whose shells hold ritual and religious significance.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment