New Type of Electric Fish Discovered in Remote Guyana

GUYANA - Researchers from the University of Toronto Scarborough found a new species of fish resembling eels in shallow waters and muddy in the upper Mazaruni River, northern Guyana capable of issuing power. Flat-bodied, fish, called Akawio Penak was found in the upper reaches of the Mazaruni which has abundant biodiversity.

However, most of the headwaters region Mazaruni unexplored due to its remote location. This region has many rivers in the highlands that have been isolated for over 30 million years.

"The fact that this area is very remote and has been isolated for so long means that we may discover a new species," said Professor Nathan Lovejoy as reported VOANews, Wednesday (25/9).

Scientists unravel DNA then the fish that teryata not so different from other similar fish that represent a new genus, a taxonomic level above species classification. Although Akawio penak generate an electric field, it is not to hunt prey that is used like an electric eel, but as a navigational tool.

The electric field is also to detect objects and is used to communicate with other fish. "Because the fish that live in the murky water, the electric field is very rewarding," he continued.

This species is named in honor of Akawio penak Akawaio American Indian tribes that inhabit the area upstream Mazaruni. "Mazaruni have unique species that are not found in other parts of the world. This is a very important region in North America related to biodiversity, "he concluded