Why in news?
Marine biologists from Berhampur University in Odisha and Hemchandracharya North Gujarat University have uncovered two tiny crustaceans new to science. The species, Grandidierella geetanjalae and Grandidierella khambhatensis, were found in the Chilika lagoon and the Gulf of Khambhat. Their discovery highlights the hidden diversity of amphipods – small shrimp‑like creatures that play important roles in aquatic ecosystems.
Background
Amphipods are a group of small crustaceans related to shrimps and crabs. They have flattened, laterally compressed bodies without a hard shell, and they possess multiple pairs of legs for crawling and swimming. Most species are only a few millimetres long and live in marine, freshwater or damp terrestrial habitats. They feed mainly on decaying plant and animal matter, helping to break down organic debris. Over 7,000 species of amphipods have been identified worldwide, but new discoveries are common because these animals are often overlooked due to their small size.
Key findings
- Two new species: The researchers collected tiny amphipods measuring about 5.5–6 millimetres long. G. geetanjalae was found in the brackish waters of Chilika lagoon in Odisha, while G. khambhatensis came from the Gulf of Khambhat in Gujarat.
- Names with meaning: One species honours Geetanjali Dash, vice‑chancellor of Berhampur University, recognising her support for the research. The other species is named after its place of discovery – Khambhat – reflecting a common practice in taxonomy.
- Confirmation by experts: The new species were compared with related amphipods and validated by Alan Myers, a leading taxonomist. Morphological details such as body shape, length of antennae and leg structure distinguished them from known species.
- Ecological role: These amphipods feed on decaying organic material and help recycle nutrients in lagoons and estuaries. They also serve as food for fishes, birds and larger crustaceans.
Significance
- Biodiversity documentation: The discovery adds to the list of species known from India’s coastal wetlands. Each new record improves our understanding of marine biodiversity and helps in monitoring environmental changes.
- Indicator species: Amphipods are sensitive to changes in water quality. Finding new species can indicate healthy habitats and guide conservation efforts.
- Encouraging taxonomic research: Highlighting the presence of unique and unnamed species may inspire further surveys of India’s rich aquatic ecosystems.
Conclusion
Although they are tiny, amphipods perform essential ecological functions by recycling nutrients and supporting food webs. The discovery of G. geetanjalae and G. khambhatensis reminds us that even well‑studied environments like lagoons and estuaries can harbour species that have never been described. Protecting these habitats will help safeguard countless small creatures that quietly maintain the health of our waterways.
Source: The Times of India