In the proceedings of rather remarkable events, the Chel snakehead fish (Channa amphibeus), previously deemed extinct, has lately been rediscovered in India following a period longer than eighty years. This surprising discovery not only brings about hope to conservationists but also shows the need for more exploration to preserve the earth’s biodiversity.
The Chel snakehead is a freshwater fish that is known for its bright green scales and unique yellow stripes. It has a large size, being the largest known snakehead species. Historically, it was collected between 1918 and 1933 in the Himalayas, after which the species “disappeared,” leading to scientists assuming its extinction.
It was in 2024 that scientists and researchers began an expedition across the banks of Chel River in West Bengal. They began this expedition after they heard about the species being spotted through contact with a local indigenous tribe in the region. The expedition led to the collection of three specimens of the species and photographs that proved that the species was not extinct.
Indigenous groups made important contributions to a re-discovery of species based on their understanding of freshwater species found locally. Their knowledge helped scientists make the identification of the Chel Snakehead.
The rediscovery of Chel snakehead fish species after over eight decades shows how much has been unexplored on the earth. This shows the importance of exploration to discover new species to help conserve the biodiversity of our planet.
References:
https://www.facebook.com/peoplemag. (2024). One of the “World’s Rarest” Fish, Thought to Be Extinct, Rediscovered After 85 Years. People.com. https://people.com/one-the-world-rarest-and-presumed-extinct-fish-rediscovered-after-85-years-11684608/
Jacobo, J. (2025, February 17). Fish species thought to be extinct for 85 years rediscovered. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/International/researchers-rediscovered-elusive-fish-species-thought-extinct-85/story?id=118895751/
Magazine Desk. (2025, February 22). Long Lost Fish Species Resurfaces After 85 Years Shocking Scientists. Tribune.com.pk; The Express Tribune. https://tribune.com.pk/story/2530213/long-lost-fish-species-resurfaces-after-85-years-shocking-scientists
McCormack, C. (2025, February 19). Chel snakehead, fish species believed to be extinct, spotted in India after 85 years. New York Post. https://nypost.com/2025/02/18/world-news/chel-snakehead-fish-species-believed-to-be-extinct-spotted-in-india-after-85-years/
