Devils Hole Pupfish: Get to Know the Rarest Fish in the World

Death Valley National Park is one of the driest places in the U.S., and perhaps, no living thing can survive in this place. All except for a rare fish species called Devils hole pupfish.

The Devils hole is an underwater cave system found in the middle of the Death Valley National Park, which is situated in the Mojave desert. Aside from the irony of an underwater cave system found in the desert, Devils hole's special residents are even more interesting.

Pupfish species is actually plentiful. In fact, there are some 120 of them in the world, according to Discover Magazine.

However, pupfish found in Devils hole is different from any of its relatives. What makes the Devils hole pupfish unique, you say?

BBC reports that the Devils hole pupfish is the most isolated animal species on Earth due to the harsh and unforgiving nature of its location. Its home is located in only a small area in the Devils hole, and it is believed that each individual fish has existed in the wild.

The Devils hole pupfish's isolation and rarity is even more emphasized because of how different they actually look compared to their cousins. They are smaller than an inch, have large head, large eyes, short little bodies and no pelvic fins.

Their dwindling number is also a cause of concern. According to an email release sent to Nature World News, there are only 90 pupfish found in its contained habitat.

In an effort to conserve them, NPS Submerged Resource Center, together with CuriosityStream, produced a compelling and an eye-opening documentary entitled "Underwater Wonders of the National Parks." It is about interesting species and secrets that are found underwater of some national parks.

According to the press release, Brett Seymour said that they are extremely pleased to be in partnership with CuriosityStream in producing the series as it sheds light on the underwater world of NPS. It highlights the work of dedicated marine scientists and archaeologists in support of the park service mission to preserve and protect our national treasures for future generations.

The documentary also gives park visitors a rare glimpse of the underworld. NPS hopes to get the public engaged and connected with their parks, especially those underwater.

The documentary was released on Aug. 24 at 9 a.m. Check out the trailer below.