First Record of <i>Lepidocephalichthys alkaia</i> (Havird and Page, 2010) from Khiuro Stream, Nagaland, India

Lepidocephalichthys alkaia is reported for the first time from Nagaland. L. alkaia is distinguished from all other Lepidocephalichthys by a mid-lateral dark stripe on caudal fin, extending from base to terminus of fin. It is further distinguished from all other Lepidocephalichthys by the combination of a truncated or rounded caudal fin; scales absent on top of head; usually dark stripe, sometimes dark spots on lateral side; dorsal-fin originates just posterior to pelvic-fin origin; dark bars on dorsum. During a recent field survey conducted in Khiuro stream, tributary of Zungki river, specimens of L. alkaia were identified, marking the first documented occurrence of this species in Nagaland. The specimens were collected using cast net and by hand-picking methods. Photographs were captured in the field and preserved in 10% formalin. The specimens were further examined using meristic and morphometric counts under a stereozoom microscope and were identified referring relevant literature. This report is noteworthy as it expands the known range of L.alkaia within Chindwin drainage system, as it is only known from Manipur, India till date. The purpose of this paper is to document the first record of L.alkaia in Nagaland, describing the specimen and its habitat.