Stenothoe lowryi

Stenothoe lowryi Latest News

For the first time, a rare marine amphipod, a shrimp-like species, named Stenothoe lowryi was found in Indian water at Arjyapalli in Ganjam district by marine science researchers of Berhampur University.

About Stenothoe lowryi

• It is a rare marine amphipod.
• This shrimp-like crustacean, previously known only from Malaysian shores, was detected for the first time in India during a targeted survey at Aryjapalli Beach in Odisha’s Ganjam district. 
• It belongs to the family Stenothoidae within the order Amphipoda. 
• It stands out with its approximate 5.5 mm body size, prominent large claws (gnathopods), and affinity for rocky intertidal habitats. 
• These claws likely aid in gripping substrates and prey, facilitating their scavenging lifestyle.
• It is distinguished by unique morphological traits such as specific antennal structures and pereopod (walking leg) configurations.
• Although little is currently known about its ecological role, it is believed to contribute significantly to the marine food web.

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What are Amphipods?

• They are a type of small crustacean. 
• They are members of the invertebrate order Amphipoda,  inhabiting all parts of the sea, lakes, rivers, sand beaches, caves, and moist (warm) habitats on many tropical islands.
• They are related to crabs, lobsters, and shrimp. 
• The name ‘amphipoda’ means “different-footed.” 
  • This is because they have many different kinds of legs. 
  • Unlike some other crustaceans, their legs are not all the same.
• There are over 7,000 known species of amphipods. Most of them belong to a group called Gammaridea.
• Amphipods can be very tiny, about 0.1 centimeters (0.04 inches) long. But some can grow quite large, up to 34 centimeters (13 inches).
• They typically have an elongated body with a distinct head, a pereon (thorax) of 7 segments, and a six-segmented pleon (abdomen).
• Most amphipods eat tiny bits of dead plants and animals. Some are also scavengers, eating what they find.

Source: TOI