Shellear fish:
Scientists have confirmed that shellear fish climb a vertical waterfall 15 metres (50 feet) tall in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Shellear fish, whose scientific name is Parakneria thysi.
- It is found in the upper Congo Basin (particularly Luvilombo Falls on the Luvilombo River).
- It is a benthopelagic; freshwater species.
- Shellear’s climbing abilities are made possible by tiny, hook-like projections on specialized pads on their pectoral and pelvic fins, along with hypertrophied muscles that enable them to carry their weight.
- The researchers said the fish may climb upstream to find suitable living conditions and areas of the waterway with less competition and fewer predators.
- The researchers identified two major human threats to the species:
- Illegal fishing using fine-mesh mosquito nets that can easily catch the fish,
- Water extraction for irrigation which has in some years depleted the Luvilombo River
