Raphael Warjri

The first-ever Aqua Park in the state was inaugurated today, 24th March 2025, by the Chief Guest, Phillip Ackermann, Ambassador of Germany to India, at Khliehshnong, Sohra. In his speech, the Ambassador highlighted the crucial need for biodiversity conservation in today’s world. He expressed satisfaction with the successful establishment of the Aqua Park, which aims to protect the indigenous snakehead fish, known locally as Dohthli in Khasi, that is native to the Sohra region.

The Ambassador further emphasized that the Aqua Park, along with its Visitor Information Centre, would serve not only as a leisure destination for tourists but also as a hub for research. He proposed potential collaborations with academic institutions in Germany to deepen the study and conservation of local biodiversity.

The details of the project were presented by Patricia Dorn, Project Manager, and Kenneth Pala, Senior Adviser at GIZ, a German biodiversity agency. Other speakers at the event included R.S. Gill, Chief Conservator of Forests and Director of Fisheries, Government of Meghalaya, and Dr. Shembha Kharwanlang, Headman of Khliehshnong, Sohra, who delivered the welcome address.

The Dohthli or Channa pardalis, a species of snakehead fish, is endemic to the Sohra region and thrives in the freshwater hill streams of Meghalaya. Several other species of snakehead are also found in the region, including:

• Channa stewartii – The Spotted Beauty
  Locally known as Dohthli Pyrthoh (Jaintia Hills) and Seng Mas (Assam), this medium-sized snakehead is recognized for its bold black spots. The Khasi and Jaintia Hills variants are particularly vibrant. It is classified as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN and is highly prized in the aquarium trade.
• Channa gachua – The Hardy Dwarf
  Known locally as Dohthli Pyrthoh (Jaintia Hills) and Seng Mas (Assam), this species thrives in hill streams and swamps. Similar to the Channa stewartii, it features distinct black spots, and the Khasi and Jaintia Hills variants are known for their vibrant coloration. It is also listed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN and holds value in the aquarium trade.
• Channa punctata – The Spotted Snakehead
  Locally called Gorei, this elongated, spotted snakehead is commonly farmed and consumed. It inhabits swamps, ponds, and brackish waters and is a crucial protein source for local tribal communities. Despite its resilience, it is considered a vulnerable species.

The Aqua Park and Visitor Information Centre feature an aquarium showcasing these four species of snakehead, alongside an audiovisual commentary and informational displays at the Aqua Museum. This initiative not only fosters awareness about local biodiversity but also promotes sustainable conservation practices for future generations.