Newly-found Aquatic Creature: Freshwater Predator Reaches Massive 220 Pounds According to Recent Scientific Findings
In a significant development for the region's ichthyofauna, two new species of large catfish have been recently described: **Bagarius protos** and **Bagarius dolichonema**. These discoveries, the result of over two decades of fieldwork by researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and their Myanmar partners, have expanded our understanding of Southeast Asia's diverse aquatic life.
**Bagarius protos**, with an average length of approximately 8.5 inches, was discovered in the Salween River Basin, specifically in Yunnan Province, China. On the other hand, **Bagarius dolichonema**, found in the Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River Basin, Myanmar, has not yet been measured extensively, but it is believed that individuals may grow larger than the average lengths recorded.
Both species belong to the sisorid catfish family, known for their large size and predatory habits. Bagarius species are among the largest freshwater catfishes in Asia, with individuals capable of reaching up to 2 meters in length.
The findings, published in the journal *Zoosystematics and Evolution* on June 24 of this year, underscore the importance of ongoing biodiversity surveys in Southeast Asia’s remote river systems. The discoveries highlight the need for more comprehensive studies of regional fish diversity, particularly in the under-explored Salween and Ayeyarwady River Basins.
These rivers remain ecologically significant but face challenges from development and habitat degradation, making these discoveries both scientifically and conservationally relevant. In fact, approximately 80% of species living on Earth remain unidentified, according to a report from the World Economic Forum, making ongoing research crucial for understanding and preserving our planet's biodiversity.
While some newly identified species come from the unseen depths of the ocean, the discovery of **Bagarius protos** and **Bagarius dolichonema** serves as a reminder that there are still many species lurking right under our noses, waiting to be discovered. As research continues, we can expect more exciting findings in the world of aquatic biology.
In the ongoing pursuit of understanding Southeast Asia's aquatic life, these recent discoveries of two new catfish species, Bagarius protos and Bagarius dolichonema, expand our knowledge not only in science but also in health-and-wellness, as these rivers support the region's ichthyofauna and contribute to the overall health of the environment and ecosystems. Further, the under-explored Salween and Ayeyarwady River Basins, where these species were discovered, remain crucial in the field of environmental-science, as ongoing research and conservation efforts are fundamental to preserving the planet's biodiversity.
