Itanagar: A new conservation mission, Tango E:pong, was launched at Motum village in Arunachal Pradesh’s East Siang district on Monday.
This initiative seeks to protect and promote catfishes like Amblyceps Motumensis and Chaca chaca, commonly referred to as ‘Beyek‘ and ‘Sita Dukhe‘ respectively.
The mission will also encompass eco-cleanliness activities to enhance the village’s environment.
The Tango E:pong Mission was launched jointly by Ato Pasing Erang, Mebo Administration, Tango E:pong Mission Committee and residents of Motum village.
Motum village is renowned for its diverse catfish population, including the vulnerable and endangered Amblyceps motumensis, locally known as ‘Beyek’.
Amblyceps motumensis, an endemic catfish named after the village of Motum, is found in the Brahmaputra River basin.
This small fish (reaching 6-7 cm in length) inhabits freshwater environments and has a distinctive elongated body and head shape.
Its diet consists of small invertebrates and plankton. Although relatively small and lesser-known, Amblyceps motumensis plays an important role in the aquatic ecosystem.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Tango E:pong Mission launch, Mebo ADC Sibo Passing highlighted the unique distinction of Motum village.
He noted that the village is home to a unique family of catfishes, scientifically named Amblyceps motumensis (locally known as ‘Beyek’), after the village itself.
This recognition, he emphasized, underscores the significance of Motum Village for ichthyological research.
According to him, Motum will flourish in the field of tourism, research and education if the ichthyofauna of Tango E:pong area is conserved.
“The mission’s objective is unique and the people of Motum need to preserve the marshy lakes and small streams. The springs require proper protection and care,” Passing said.
Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng commended the entire E:pong Mission committee, the villagers of Motum, and the Ato Passing Erang (a clan-based organization of the Pasing clan in the Adi tribe) for their dedicated efforts to protect and promote the unique catfishes.
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He emphasized that this mission should serve as a catalyst for strong and sustained efforts to conserve these unique species and transform them into a significant attraction for tourists.
