A new species of fish has been discovered: It defies drought, it doesn't need water!

A discovery made in temporary wetlands in the Chaco National Park in northeastern Argentina has made an important contribution to the scientific world.

According to ellitoral.com, researchers working in collaboration with Conicet, Argentinian universities and the Uruguay National Museum of Natural History have described a new fish species, which they named Titanolebias calvinoi.

The discovery was made in June 2023 in a seasonal wetland known as "La Ralera", connected to the Negro River basin. The fieldwork was carried out by the joint efforts of a park ranger, a biologist and a naturalist. The experts managed to collect several samples before the waters receded completely and the predators increased.

The newly discovered species is known for its ability to survive in seasonally drying ponds, and as such belongs to a group of fish known as "seasonal killifish" that have short lifespans but remarkable adaptability.

Can reproduce just a few weeks after birth

Titanolebias calvinoi can reproduce just a few weeks after birth and lays hardy eggs that lie dormant underground throughout the dry season, enabling it to maintain a life cycle resistant to highly variable environmental conditions.

The researchers note that this species is larger in size than other species within the Titanolebias genus, and the discovery extends the geographic distribution of this fish family into the eastern Chaco.

The discovery of Titanolebias calvinoi in a protected area highlights the critical role of national parks in preserving biodiversity. 18 seasonal killifish species have been recorded in Argentina so far, and more than half of them are threatened with extinction.

According to scientists, this highlights how fragile the wetland ecosystems where these fish live are and the need for urgent conservation measures. The description of the new species not only increases our knowledge of species diversity, but also reinforces the importance of protecting their habitats for their survival.

The new giant Chaco fish is seen as a promising development for the conservation of special species that depend on sensitive environmental conditions. Protecting temporary wetlands not only secures new species such as Titanolebias calvinoi, but also many unique creatures that play a role in the ecological balance of the region.