Algerian ecologist and photographer Ridwan Tahiri made an important discovery by finding the endangered "Aphanius saourensis" fish and documenting it in various photos. What is the story behind this unique discovery? The "Aphanius saourensis" inhabits the Saoura Valley in Bechar, southwestern Algeria, and is a freshwater fish species. Its discovery is deemed a "significant find" considering that this species is threatened with extinction, and its resurgence indicates the future of some marine species that require scientific research to ensure their preservation.
Ridwan Tahiri, a documentary producer about desert wildlife, stated, "The discovery and photographing of this rare fish did not happen by chance but is the result of over ten years of research, as 2003 was the last year it was observed. A German researcher previously visited the area and did not find it, evidenced by its listing in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s red list of endangered aquatic species."
In an interview with "Al Arabiya.net," Ridwan Tahiri recounted his quest for the "Aphanius saourensis" fish, which resides in the Saoura Valley in Bechar, a unique species globally. Armed with determination as a researcher interested in desert biodiversity, he noted, "I traveled to various oases and valleys deep in the desert in search of it and managed to reach the groundwater and ancient underground waters known in the southwestern region."
He continued, saying: "Recently, during one of my trips into the depths of the desert, after 30 kilometers of penetration, I was surprised by a scene that reignited my hope. A valley appeared before me amidst the sands, surrounded by greenery, and I was filled with the dream of finding this fish I had been searching for. The valley was covered in algae, confirming that life still existed there, and perhaps aquatic creatures as well. I approached it and found signs of deer passing, and from there I continued until I spotted this lovely and beautiful fish with its blue and yellow colors and half of its head golden, which is known for the male and female living together."
In this context, Ridwan Tahiri, who has brought the "Aphanius saourensis" fish back into the spotlight, expressed hope that it would return to its original habitat in the Saoura Valley, which is considered one of the most important watercourses in the southwestern region of Algeria.
