In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...
Invasive Fish Species: Mosquito Control or Ecological Threat?
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought a response from the Central Government regarding the use of two invasive fish species—Gambusia affinis and Poecilia reticulata—as biological agents for mosquito control in India.
Common Characteristics of Both Species
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Environmental Tolerance: Survive in brackish water, high salinity, and extreme temperatures.
Gambusia Affinis (Western Mosquitofish)
- Native Range: Mississippi River Basin, USA (from Indiana to the Gulf of Mexico).
- Habitat: Found in freshwater bodies, especially stagnant ponds and slow-moving streams.
- Key Characteristics:
- Can survive in low oxygen environments.
- Viviparous: Give birth to live young instead of laying eggs.
- Aggressive nature: Preys on native fish and disrupts local biodiversity.
- Invasive Impact:
- Listed among the 100 worst invasive species (IUCN).
- Outcompetes native fish species and alters ecosystems.
Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy / Millionfish / Rainbow Fish)
- Native Range: Northern South America & Caribbean Islands.
- Habitat: Prefers shallow pools and streams.
- Key Characteristics:
- Highly adaptable and rapidly reproducing species.
- Used globally for mosquito larvae control.
- Competes with native fish species for food and habitat.
- Invasive Impact:
- Potential disruption of local aquatic biodiversity.
- Known to cause imbalance in freshwater ecosystems.
Ecological Concerns & NGT's Response
- Although these species help in mosquito control, their aggressive nature threatens native aquatic life.
- NGT's inquiry highlights the need for environmental assessments before widespread introduction.