Context:
Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) recently discovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark Squalus hima from a fishing harbour in Kerala along the Arabian Sea.
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
About Squalus Hima
Discovery and Habitat
- Discovery: Squalus hima is a newly discovered species of dogfish shark found off the southwest coast of India.
- Genus: It belongs to the genus Squalus within the family Squalidae, commonly known as spurdogs.
- Characteristics: These sharks are characterized by smooth dorsal fin spines, an angular short snout, and a small mouth almost as wide as the snout.
Commercial Importance
- Exploitation: Squalus species are exploited for their liver oil, which is rich in squalene, highly valued in the pharmaceutical industry for making high-end cosmetics and anti-cancer products.
- Demand: They are in high demand due to their squalene content, which is essential in various pharmaceutical applications.
Distinguishing Features
- Physical Characteristics: Squalus hima differs from other species in the genus by several morphological features:
- Number of precaudal vertebrae
- Total vertebrae count
- Teeth structure
- Trunk and head heights
- Fin structure and coloration
Comparison with Squalus lalannei
- Similarities and Differences: While similar to Squalus lalannei, Squalus hima exhibits distinct differences in various anatomical characteristics, highlighting its unique identity within the Squalus genus.
-Source: The Hindu
