Iraq documents rare blind fish in 500-metre deep subterranean river

Iraq’s Ministry of Interior has confirmed the discovery of a subterranean river inhabited by rare blind fish located 500 metres beneath the Anbar desert. The discovery, documented at the Al Khasfa geological depression near Haditha, marks a major expansion of known habitats for the critically endangered species. Subterranean Expedition Finds Unique Ecosystem Environmental police and researchers from the Green Climate Organisation conducted the descent into the cave formation, navigating oxygen-depleted conditions to reach the water system. According to Dr. Omar Al Sheikhly, an environmental scientist involved in the project, the underground river is part of a 130-kilometre system extending east from the Euphrates River. The team travelled nearly two kilometres through the formation to reach the flowing water. The ministry released footage on Friday, 14 August, showing the specialised freshwater species, known as the Haditha blind fish. These specimens lack functional eyes and skin pigmentation due to prolonged evolution in absolute darkness, resulting in a translucent or pale pink appearance where internal organs are visible. Increased Size and Population Records While the Haditha blind fish was first documented in 1955, this expedition recorded specimens at a new location that are larger than any previously measured. The fish rely on lateral-line sensory systems to detect vibrations and water pressure changes, feeding on bacteria and organic matter. Researchers identified…