Context: Researchers from the Central University of Odisha (CUO) and the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have found rare freshwater fish in the Koraput district. The species has been named ‘Garra Laishrami’. 

What is Garra Laishrami?

• Garra Laishrami is a rare freshwater fish species found in the Kolab river.

• The species was named after Dr Laishram Kosygin of the ZSI to honour his remarkable contributions to understanding the taxonomy of Indian freshwater fishes.

• Characteristics:  The species is edible and local people consume it. 

• Besides, this fish is usually found under rocks, stones and boulders of torrential streams and rivers.

• The majority of the more than 140 species of garras are native to Asia, but about one-fifth of the species are from Africa (East, Middle and West, but by far the highest species richness in Ethiopia).

• Fishes of genus Garra are characterised by the presence of a gular disc developed from tissues of the gular region that exhibit variation in the size, shape, and arrangement of the snout tubercles.

• These groups of fishes are generally distributed from Borneo, southern China and southern Asia through Middle East Asia, Arabian Peninsula and East Africa to West Africa.

About Kolab River

• Kolab River is one of the major rivers of Odisha, India.

• Its source is at Sinkaran hills of eastern Ghats in Koraput district.

• The reservoir is popularly known as kolab river.

• It is a major reservoir for irrigation project and electricity powerhouse.

Hydrography of Odisha

• Rivers: Bhargavi, Baitarani, Brahmani, Budhabalanga, DayaDevi, DhamraIb, Indravati, Kadua, Kharkai, Kuakhai, Koina, Kolab, Kushabhadra, Mahanadi, Malguni, Nagavali, Ong, Rushikulya, Sankh, South Karo, South Koel, Subarnarekha, Surubalijora, Tel, Telen, Vamsadhara

• Lakes: Anshupa, Chilika, Kanjia, Tampara

• Waterfalls: Badaghagara, Barehipani, Duduma, Dokarichanchara, Phurlijharan, Joranda, Khandadhar, Kendujhar, Khandadhar, Sundagarh, Koilighugar, Sanaghagara

• Hot springs: Taptapani, Deulajhari, Atri, Tarabalo

• Beaches: Chandipur, Gahirmatha, Gopalpur-on-Sea, Konark, Puri, Talsari

• Dams: Deras, Hirakud, Mandira, Rengali, Upper Kolab