New Marine Worm Species

New Marine Worm Species Latest News

Recently, researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have uncovered two new marine worm species (polychaetes) namely Namalycastis solenotognatha and Nereis dhritiae from the Nereidid family coasts of West Bengal.

About New Marine Worm Species

• Namalycastis solenotognatha
  • It derives its name from the Greek words “solenotos” (channeled) and “gnatha” (jaw).
  • The “channeled jaw” refers to its unusual jaw structure with a large number of canals that emerge from the pulp cavity.
  • Habitat: Ideal conditions for its survival are extreme environments, sulfide-rich, foul-smelling mudflats, and they are mostly found on decomposing mangrove wood and hardened clay.

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About Nereis Dhritiae

• It is named after the first woman director of ZSI, Dhriti Banerjee.
• Habitat: This species was found living inside wooden dock piles on sandy beaches, which are submerged during times of high tide.

Significance of Nereidid worms

• They help maintain coastal health, and they play a major role in nutrient cycling and sediment aeration.
• These species of marine worms were found in areas that were heavily impacted by human activities and subject to pollution.
• These worms can serve as vital bioindicators and help in monitoring coastal health.

Source: IE