TAG: GS 2: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT
THE CONTEXT: Recently, Researchers at Berhampur University, Odisha, made a significant discovery of a new species of marine amphipod, belonging to the genus Demaorchestia, in Chilika Lake on the east coast of India.
EXPLANATION:
- The species was named Demaorchestia alanensis after Professor Alan Myers of University College Cork, Ireland, a notable expert in marine amphipod studies.
- The discovery was led by an assistant professor at Berhampur University, along with two other researchers.
- The new species discovery adds to the global species count of the genus Demaorchestia, making it a total of six known species in this group.
Collection and Description
- Researchers collected at least eight specimens of the species from Barkul beach in Ganjam district, Odisha, along the Chilika Lake shore in January 2022, using handpicking techniques.
- The identification of the new species was confirmed after extensive surveys and laboratory tests at Berhampur University.
- A research scholar highlighted the distinctiveness of this species from the other five globally known species of Demaorchestia.
Deposition and Characteristics
- The specimens were deposited in the Zoological Survey of India’s Estuarine Biology Regional Centre, Gopalpur-on-Sea, Odisha, for further detailed examination and research.
- The newly discovered species appears white in colour and measures less than 15 millimeters in length, possessing 13 pairs of legs.
- Notably, three pairs of legs are utilized for swimming, eight for terrestrial movement, and the remaining two pairs for capturing prey and feeding.
Unique Features and Taxonomy
- The distinguishing feature of this species includes two to three strong, hair-like structures (setae) on the anterior margin of the propodus of the gnathopod.
- It belongs to the subfamily Platorchestiinae, commonly found along the Indian coast, according to Shesdev Patro.
Ecological Importance and Future Research
- Amphipods play a significant role in marine ecosystems, contributing to the food chain and serving as indicators for assessing climate change impacts and coastal ecosystem health.
- Further research aims to deepen understanding regarding the specific ecological roles of amphipods in coastal and marine environments.
Talitridae Family and Previous Discoveries
- Talitridae, the family to which this species belongs, is considered one of the oldest groups of amphipods and has existed since the Jurassic age.
- The family is divided into four subfamilies, with Platorchestiinae being one of them and represented along the Indian coastline.
- Earlier discoveries include two other marine amphipods: Quadrivisio Chilikensis from seaweeds near Nalaban, and Talorchestia buensis from the West Bengal coastal area.
- The discoveries contribute to enriching scientific knowledge about marine biodiversity in India and hold significance for conservation and ecological studies of coastal ecosystems.