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- A recent discovery by a small team of ichthyologists revealed a new species of damselfish inhabiting the waters off the coast of the Maldives.
- About Damselfish:
- Damselfish are a group of around 250 species of small, tropical marine fish belonging to the family Pomacentridae (order Perciformes), found in both the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans. These fish are typically deep-bodied with forked tails, and they bear a resemblance to the cichlids. Like cichlids, damselfish have a single nostril on each side of their head and a discontinuous lateral line. They also possess two anal spines.
- Many damselfish species are strikingly colorful, displaying vibrant hues of red, orange, yellow, or blue, and most species grow to no longer than 15 cm (6 inches). Some species feed primarily on plant matter or small animals in the water, while others have an omnivorous diet. Most damselfishes are found living around coral reefs, although some, like the anemonefish, are known for dwelling within the protective tentacles of sea anemones.
- A recent study has been published in which researchers evaluate the effectiveness and safety of filgotinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) 1 preferential inhibitor, for both induction and maintenance therapy in patients with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease.
- About Crohn’s Disease:
- Crohn’s disease is a form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) that is chronic, meaning it persists over time and causes inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Causes:
- The exact cause of Crohn's disease remains unclear, but experts believe it may result from an abnormal immune system response. While the disease often begins in childhood or early adulthood, it can develop at any age.
- Symptoms:
- The inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease can affect various parts of the digestive tract in different individuals, most frequently targeting the small intestine. Common symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramping and pain, anemia, loss of appetite, and unintended weight loss.
- Treatment:
- Although there is no known cure for Crohn’s disease, various treatments can significantly alleviate its symptoms and improve quality of life for patients.
- The Maharashtra government intends to submit a proposal to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to have the renowned Lonar Lake in Buldhana district included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.
- About Lonar Lake:
- Lonar Lake is a lagoon located in Buldhana district in the state of Maharashtra. It was formed by the impact of a meteorite, making it the only known saline crater lake in the world. The lake was created around 50,000 years ago, and its water is seven times saltier than seawater.
- The lake spans a diameter of 1.2 kilometers and has a depth of 150 meters, surrounded by hills that form a rim around it. One of its most notable features is its changing color, shifting from green to pink depending on the season and water conditions. This color change is due to the presence of microorganisms that flourish in the lake's saline and alkaline environment.
- Astronomers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have observed Far Ultraviolet (FUV) emissions from novae for the first time in the Andromeda galaxy, our neighboring galaxy.
- A nova is a special type of transient astronomical event, characterized by the sudden appearance of a bright, seemingly new star that gradually fades over weeks or months after its outburst. Novae occur in binary star systems, where a dense, Earth-sized white dwarf star orbits closely with a Sun-like companion. The white dwarf's strong gravitational pull draws material from its companion, leading to a significant buildup of matter on its surface. This accumulation triggers powerful thermonuclear reactions, causing a sudden, intense burst of light, known as a nova. The nova reaches its maximum brightness within hours of the outburst and can shine brightly for several days.
- Key Facts About the Andromeda Galaxy:
- The Andromeda Galaxy, also known as Messier 31 or M31, is the nearest major galaxy to the Milky Way. Located 2.5 million light years away from Earth, it is the second-largest member of the Local Group, a collection of nearby galaxies. Like the Milky Way, Andromeda is a barred spiral galaxy, named for the bar-like structure of stars at its center.
- Recently, researchers have identified two genetically distinct groups of the Indian star tortoise species, namely the northwestern and southern populations.
- The name "star tortoise" comes from the star-like patterns that decorate its high-domed shell. These distinct patterns, combined with its rounded shell, have made it a popular species in the global exotic pet trade.
- Habitat:
- Indian star tortoises are found in a wide range of habitats, including semi-arid lowland forests, thorn scrub forests, semi-deserts, and arid grasslands. They are highly adaptable to seasonal changes, thriving in areas with monsoons or rainy seasons followed by long periods of hot, dry weather.
- Distribution:
- Endemic to the Indian subcontinent, this species is found in arid regions of northwest India (along the Pakistan border), South India, and Sri Lanka. Typically crepuscular, these tortoises are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, particularly in dry, hot conditions.
- Diet:
- Primarily herbivores, Indian star tortoises feed on grasses, herbaceous plants, and flowers.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN: Vulnerable
- CITES: Appendix I
- Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972: Schedule I
- Threats:
- The species faces significant threats due to habitat fragmentation, which is further exacerbated by increasing urbanization and agricultural activities throughout its range.