Oriental Darter

Scientific Name

Anhinga melanogaster

Type

  • Waterbird
  • Also called Indian darter/snakebird

Habitat

Commonly associated with:

  • Lakes
  • Rivers
  • Marshes
  • Wetlands
  • Reservoirs

Special Adaptation

  • Long, slender neck
  • Excellent swimmer
  • Often swims with only its head and neck visible above water → "snakebird" appearance.

Conservation

Listed as Near Threatened in several Indian biodiversity assessments based on the IUCN categorisation used in such assessments.

Ecological Importance

  • Aquatic predator
  • Feeds primarily on fish and aquatic organisms.
  • Wetland health indicator.

Prelims: Oriental Darter → Waterbird → Wetlands → Anhinga melanogaster.