Butis bargabhimae

Category: Environment and Ecology — New Species

Butis bargabhimae is a newly described species of fish belonging to the family Butidae. It was scientifically described in 2026.

Key facts

  • Discovery location: Rupnarayan River, Purba Medinipur district, West Bengal.

  • Habitat: Freshwater and brackish-water environments.

  • Taxonomic group: Order Gobiiformes; family Butidae.

  • It resembles related species but can be distinguished by specific scale patterns and distinctive bands on its pectoral fins.

  • Its scientific name honours the regional deity Bargabhima.

UPSC key pointers

  • It is a fish, not an amphibian or reptile.

  • The Rupnarayan River is associated with the Hooghly river system.

  • The discovery highlights the biodiversity of eastern India's river and estuarine ecosystems.

  • Scientific identification can use both morphological characteristics and DNA-based analysis.