Species

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in Texas—a rare species of eyeless catfish, the Mexican blindcat (Prietella phreatophila), previously only known in Mexico. Found in a limestone cave near Del Rio, Texas, these tiny catfish, which grow no larger than 3 inches, were identified by Dean Hendrickson of UT Austin. This finding suggests that water-filled caves may connect aquifers across the U.S.-Mexico border. The endangered species, now housed at the San Antonio Zoo, highlights the importance of preserving aquifer ecosystems, vital for both human and wildlife survival.