New ‘golden’ species found in China pond vanishes before more research can be done
In a deep pond rich with underwater plants in south-central China swam a fish believed to have existed nowhere else in the world.
The scaled fish with barb-like growths at the base of its body turned out to be a new species, according to a study published Feb. 26 in the peer-reviewed journal Zoosystematics and Evolution.
Yunnanilus triangulus, or the “triangle Yunnan loach,” was found in a “deep pool” in Huaning County in the Yunnan Province and earned its name from the unique triangular spikes made of keratin that grow where its body meets its tail during mating season.
This new loach species is the only known member of the Yunnanilus genus to have these growths, which serve as a reproductive tool, according to the study.
Its small eyes and dense scales along its “light golden” body distinguish the new loach from other Yunnanilus species, according to the study.
Habitat disruption leads to disappearance
In September, when researchers visited the pond where the new loach was discovered, they’d made an alarming revelation — the species had disappeared.
Scientists said they believe the “rapid decline” of the once-“abundant” underwater plants coupled with the introduction of “large numbers of carp” likely contributed to the triangle Yunnan loach’s disappearance.
Researchers said these findings underscore the delicate relationship between Yunnanilus fish and their environments. They advocated for “species-specific conservation strategies” that protect these habitats.
According to the study, the Yunnanilus genus comprises 20 species found in the “lakes, marshes, and slow-flowing waters” of the Yunnan and Sichuan Provinces in southwestern China.
The research team included Mei Liu, Jian-Bing Lyu, Li-Na Du and Xiao-Yong Chen.
Huaning County is located in Yuxi City in the Yunnan Province.
This story was originally published March 3, 2025 at 2:13 PM with the headline "New ‘golden’ species found in China pond vanishes before more research can be done."
