In southwestern China, scientists have found a fascinating new species of golden cave fish. This fish, known as the Xingren golden-lined fish (S. xingrenensis), is part of a unique group called golden-line fish (Sinocyclocheilus), which are exclusively found in caves.
This new species stands out because it has large eyes but no scales. Many cave fish have evolved to lose their eyes and scales over time, adapting to their dark and underwater environments. The discovery indicates that the Xingren golden-lined fish is still in the process of evolving to fit its underground home.
The researchers believe that golden-line fish first entered caves millions of years ago as China faced drying conditions at the end of the Miocene (23 to 5.3 million years ago). They also found that the process of losing scales likely occurred during the Pleistocene (2.6 million years to about 11,700 years ago).
According to the study published in Zoosystematics and Evolution, this evolution suggests that cave fish, including the Xingren, haven’t been living in caves for very long in the grand scheme of things.
With the latest find, there are now 81 recognized species of golden-line fish. Researchers discovered the Xingren while they were studying golden-line fish in Guizhou province from 2012 to 2020.
The appearance of the Xingren fish is distinct, featuring a scaleless body and unique black markings. Unlike some golden-line fish that have horn-like structures, like the recently identified S. longicornus, the Xingren does not.
There’s still much to learn about this new species. The size of their eyes suggests they can still detect some light. This ability may help them navigate and survive in their habitat, which has access to surface streams through cave openings. This connection to light could affect their daily cycles.
In summary, the discovery of the Xingren golden-lined fish adds to the rich diversity of cave fish and gives researchers new insights into how species adapt and evolve in challenging environments.
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