The Chel snakehead (Channa amphibeus), a fish species believed to have vanished for over eight decades, has been rediscovered in the Himalayan region of India, bringing an unexpected twist to the world of wildlife conservation. Thought to be extinct since the early 20th century, this rare freshwater predator has resurfaced, proving that nature still holds many secrets.
A Species Lost to Time
The last recorded sighting of the Chel snakehead dated back to specimens collected between 1918 and 1933. Since then, researchers searched in vain for the elusive fish, leading to the assumption that it had disappeared forever. Decades of absence made it one of the greatest mysteries in Indian ichthyology.
Yet, in 2024, the impossible became reality. Researchers, armed with rumors from local tribes who claimed to have encountered the fish, ventured deep into the Chel River in West Bengal. Their persistence paid off—three live specimens were collected, along with photographic evidence confirming the species was alive and well.
A Remarkable Find in the Chel River
The rediscovery took place in Kalimpong, a town nestled in the Himalayan foothills. The fish was located in the Chel River system, the very habitat where it was last seen almost a century ago. Researchers were tipped off by locals who had reportedly been consuming the species, sparking the expedition that led to its confirmation.
Tejas Thackeray, founder of the Thackeray Wildlife Foundation, emphasized the significance of the discovery. “The resolution of this long-standing mystery reinforces the importance of continued exploration and highlights the persistence of biodiversity, even in species once thought lost to time,” he wrote on social media.
The Most Elusive Snakehead
The Chel snakehead stands out among its relatives. Unlike other snakehead fish, this species is renowned for its bright green scales, yellow stripes, and impressive size—making it the largest among known snakeheads. Despite its striking appearance, it remained undetected for nearly a century, evading numerous scientific surveys.
The rediscovery also highlights how traditional knowledge can play a crucial role in conservation. It was only after hearing reports from indigenous communities that researchers were able to refocus their search and locate the elusive species.
What’s Next for the Chel Snakehead?
With its existence now confirmed, the question arises: how has this species survived unnoticed for so long? According to a paper published recently in the journal Zootaxa, scientists believe its remote, fast-flowing freshwater habitat may have contributed to its ability to remain hidden. However, deforestation, pollution, and habitat destruction pose growing threats to the region’s biodiversity.
For now, the Thackeray Wildlife Foundation and conservationists are pushing for further research to assess the Chel snakehead’s population size, behavior, and ecological needs. Protecting the species and its habitat will be critical in ensuring it doesn’t slip back into obscurity.
