The new species of blind cat fish has been named Horaglanis abdulkalami after former Indian President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. It was meant as a tribute to his contributions to science and science education, the discoverers said. The unique character of H. abdulkalami is its red blood colour. The scientists say the fish are able to feed on minute organic matter in the soil. Kerala's wetlands provide an ideal habitat for such animals. Species like the catfish are key to maintaining these ecosystems, since their faeces provide sustenance to other species. The researchers are working to sequence the catfish's genome, to determine whether it might be related to any other species within India or in other countries.