National

New Freshwater Shrimp Species Discovered in Gomti River

Published on 29 Jul 2026

A new freshwater shrimp species, Caridina sharmai, was discovered in the upper reaches of the Gomti River in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on 27 July 2026.
Belongs to the atyid shrimp group (family Atyidae); first such record from the Gomti at Lucknow.
Named in honour of Professor U.D. Sharma, a pioneer in carcinology (study of crustaceans).
Measures 15–24 mm; dark brown/black body with yellowish-grey stripes that camouflage with the riverbed.
Short, knife-shaped rostrum with 15–22 upper and 4–9 lower teeth.
Observed in groups clinging to underwater vegetation and filter-feeding.

Discussion 0

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!