Wed Mar 12 19:04:36 UTC 2025: ## New Eel Species Discovered Off India’s Coast, Named After Tamil Language
**Chennai, March 13, 2025** – Researchers from the National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR) have discovered a new species of Congrid eel off the Thoothukudi coast in India. The species, belonging to the genus *Ariosoma*, has been named *Ariosoma tamilicum* in honor of the Tamil language, at the request of local fishermen who assisted in the discovery.
The naming, approved by international reviewers, recognizes Tamil as one of the world’s oldest languages. The discovery, published in the journal *Zootaxa*, is the result of morphological analysis, skeleton radiography, and advanced molecular studies. Researchers found several distinct characteristics in the new species, including a single whitish band across the anterior eye margin and unique pigmentation patterns. The eel also possesses a longer vomerine teeth patch and a specific number of vertebrae (120-129).
The NBFGR, part of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), is actively exploring the biodiversity of the understudied Anguilligormes fish group in Indian waters. This marks the 14th eel species discovered by the NBFGR team along the Indian coast. Further research is underway to assess the nutritional profile of *A. tamilicum*, with the potential for commercialization if protein levels prove comparable to other edible fish. The research highlights India’s rich marine biodiversity and ongoing efforts to understand and conserve it.
First Piper 