Context:

Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered a new species of deep-water dogfish shark, Squalus hima, at the Sakthikulangara fishing harbor in Kerala along the Arabian Sea. 

Key Highlights 

Characteristics of Squalus Hima

• Squalus Hima is a genus of dogfish sharks in the Squalidae family, commonly known as spurdogs, characterized by smooth dorsal fin spines. 
• The Squalus megalops group, to which Squalus hima belongs, is characterized by an angular short snout, a small mouth almost as wide as the snout, the first dorsal fin origin behind the pectoral fins, and a body without spots.

Differentiation from Other Species

• In India, two Squalus species are found along the southwest coast. 
• The new species, Squalus hima, is very similar to Squalus lalannei but differs in many characteristics.
• Squalus hima differs from other species in the number of precaudal vertebrae, total vertebrae, teeth count, trunk and head heights, and fin structure and color.

Importance of the Discovery

• The exploitation of Squalus and Centrophorus sharks for their squalene-rich liver oil, in high demand for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and anti-cancer products, underscores the importance of conserving Squalus hima. 
• Dogfish sharks are commercially significant for their fins, liver oil, and meat, and are often caught as bycatch.

About the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)

• The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) was founded on 1 July 1916 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
• The main function of ZSI is to promote survey, exploration, and research leading to the advancement of knowledge on various aspects of the animal life of India.
• Headquarters: Kolkata