Schistura densiclava

Schistura densiclava : A newly discovered species of cave-dwelling loach, Schistura densiclava, has been found in the Krem Mawjymbuin cave located in Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills district.

• About Schistura densiclava: Belonging to the Nemacheilidae family—freshwater, bottom-dwelling fishes adapted to benthic stream habitats.

o It is identified as a troglophile species, capable of surviving in both cave (subterranean) and surface (epigean) water environments.

o Named densiclava due to the presence of a distinct dark stripe near the dorsal fin (Latin: "thick stripe").

o Unlike many cave-dwelling species that lose pigmentation and eyesight, they retains functional eyes and body pigment, making it adaptable across diverse environments.

o Inhabits a cool, fast-flowing stream with a temperature of 18°C and low oxygen levels—typical of underground aquatic ecosystems.

o Exhibits a pale yellow-green body with 14–20 vertical greyish-black or faint black bars.

o Sexual dimorphism: Males are slimmer with irregular body markings and puffier cheeks. Females appear sturdier with more uniform patterns.