Al-Khasfa sinkhole reveals rare eyeless fish

Iraqi security and environmental teams explored the underground waters of Al-Khasfa, near Haditha, discovering rare eyeless fish living deep beneath the desert.

The teams traveled more than 500 metres through caves and sinkholes to reach flowing groundwater. The pale fish have adapted to permanent darkness by losing their eyes and pigmentation. The fish were first documented in the area in 2010. They can grow to about 49 millimetres and live in groundwater temperatures of 20–22°C. Officials say the species is vulnerable to groundwater changes, pollution and human activity, highlighting the need to protect the region’s unique underground ecosystem.