ZSI scientists discover 2 marine worm species in coastal Bengal

In what comes as a significant finding, scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), in collaboration with international experts, have discovered two new species of nereidid worms (polychaetes) from the coastal waters of Digha and Bankiput regions of East Midnapore.

The discovery, according to the researchers, highlights the rich yet vulnerable marine biodiversity of the northern Bay of Bengal.

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As informed by the ZSI, this finding adds a significant chapter to India’s marine inventory and emphasises the urgent need for systematic exploration of the country’s vast coastline. As these habitats face increasing pressure from anthropogenic activities, the discovery serves as a reminder of the hidden biodiversity that remains to be protected.

The discovery includes two distinct species, each named for their unique biological traits or in honour of scientific leadership. The first discovered species has been named as ‘Namalycastissolenotognatha.’ The name is said to have been derived from the Greek words solenotos meaning channeled and gnatha meaning jaw as the species features specialised jaws with numerous canals emerging from the pulp cavity.

It thrives in extreme environments, including sulfide-rich, malodorous, and organically enriched mudflats, often found among decomposing mangrove wood and hardened clay. The other finding, Nereis dhritiae’ has been named in honour of Dr Dhriti Banerjee, the first women director of the ZSI. This species was discovered dwelling within wooden dock piles on sandy beaches that are submerged during high tide.

According to the researchers, including Jyoshna Pradhan, Dr Anil Mohapatra (ZSI), and Dr Tulio F Villalobos-Guerrero (CICESE, Mexico, Nereidids are vital to coastal health, playing a critical role in nutrient cycling and sediment aeration. Also, these species were found in areas significantly impacted by human activity and pollution.

“The presence of these species in specialised, highly exposed, and even polluted habitats underscores the resilience of polychaetes. These worms may serve as vital bioindicators for monitoring coastal health, though further studies are required to fully understand their potential for conservation,” pointed out the researchers.