Scientists of ICAR-CMFRI and ZSI Discover New Marine Fish Species from Northern Arabian Sea

A team of scientists from the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) and Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has identified a new species of threadfin belonging to the family Polynemidae, in the coastal waters of Maharashtra.

The newly discovered species, named Filistriatus arabicus, was identified based on three specimens collected from local fish landing centres, including Sassoon Dock and Alibaug.

Proposed common name  as the Arabian five-finger threadfin, the species gets its name from the presence of five distinct pectoral filaments. Scientists confirmed the identification through detailed morphological, radiographic, and molecular analyses.

Threadfins belong to the family Polynemidae and are typically found in sandy or muddy coastal habitats. Many species in this group are of high commercial value, supporting artisanal and semi-industrial fisheries.

Researchers believe that Filistriatus arabicus may be endemic to the northern Arabian Sea. The discovery underscores the region’s importance as a unique zoogeographical zone, known for supporting species that are either exclusive to the area or found in significant abundance.