ZSI Discovers New Dogfish Shark Species Off Kerala Coast

The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has discovered a new deep-water dogfish shark species, Squalus hima, at Sakthikulangara fishing harbor in Kerala, along the Arabian Sea.

Discovery of Squalus hima

New deep-water dogfish shark species discovered by Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) scientists
Found at Sakthikulangara fishing harbor in Kerala, along the Arabian Sea
Named Squalus hima
Published in the journal Records of the ZSI
Led by Scientist Bineesh K. K from ZSI's Marine Biology Regional Centre

Characteristics and Identification

Belongs to the genus Squalus in the family Squalidae
Characterized by smooth dorsal fin spines
Differs from similar species (S. mitsukurii and S. lalannei) in:
- Number of precaudal vertebrae
- Total vertebrae
- Teeth count
- Trunk and head heights
- Fin structure and color
Part of the Squalus megalops group:
- Angular short snout
- Small mouth almost as wide as the snout
- First dorsal fin origin behind pectoral fins
- Body without spots

Significance and Economic Impact

Important for marine biodiversity conservation
Dogfish sharks are commercially valuable for:
- Fins
- Liver oil (high in squalene/squalane)
- Meat
Liver oil in high demand for pharmaceuticals and cosmetics
Often caught as bycatch in fisheries
Discovery highlights need for sustainable fishing practices

Research and Exploration

Based on 13 specimens collected from southwest coast of India
Part of surveys to understand deep-sea shark diversity
Explored depths up to 1000 meters along Indian coastline
Future plans to explore up to 2000 meters depth
Part of Deep Ocean Mission by Ministry of Earth Sciences

Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) Background

Founded on July 1, 1916
Headquartered in Kolkata
16 regional stations across India
Houses over 5 million specimens
Conducts environmental impact assessments
Maintains and updates the 'Red Data Book' for species conservation

The discovery of Squalus hima not only expands our understanding of marine biodiversity, but it also emphasizes the importance of ongoing research and exploration in India's waters. As we discover new species, it becomes increasingly important to strike a balance between economic exploitation and conservation efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of our marine ecosystems.

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