Discovery along an impacted coastline
Hidden Marine Biodiversity off West Bengal Coast: Researchers have identified two new species of marine worms along the heavily stressed coastline of West Bengal. The discovery highlights the presence of hidden biodiversity even in regions affected by industrial activity and pollution. It challenges the assumption that degraded coastal zones lack ecological value.
The study was conducted along the northern stretches of the Bay of Bengal, an area known for intense human pressure. Despite environmental stress, the region continues to support resilient marine organisms.
Role of Zoological Survey of India
The discovery was led by scientists from the Zoological Survey of India in collaboration with international experts. Fieldwork was carried out in the Digha and Bankiput coastal zones.
These areas are known for pollution, fishing pressure, and port-related activities. The findings demonstrate that scientifically unexplored biodiversity can survive even under adverse environmental conditions.
Static GK fact: Zoological Survey of India was established in 1916 and functions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Scientific identification and publication
The research findings were published in the Journal of Natural History, a reputed international taxonomy journal. The study formally documented the morphology, habitat, and classification of the new species.
One species was named Namalycastis solenotognatha, referring to its distinctive channeled jaw structure. The name is derived from Greek terms used in zoological classification.
The second species, Nereis dhritiae, was named in honour of Dhriti Banerjee, recognising her contribution to faunal research in India.
Adaptation to extreme habitats
- solenotognatha was found inhabiting sulfide-rich mudflats with strong odour and decomposing mangrove wood. Such environments are typically hostile to most marine organisms.
- dhritiae was discovered living inside submerged wooden dock piles along sandy beaches during high tide. This indicates specialised habitat adaptation and survival strategies.
Static GK Tip: Polychaete worms belong to the phylum Annelida and are mostly marine in distribution.
Ecological importance of nereidid worms
Nereidid worms play a vital role in nutrient cycling and sediment aeration. Their burrowing behaviour improves oxygen flow within sediments.
They also support coastal food webs by recycling organic matter. This makes them essential for maintaining ecosystem stability, even in degraded coastal environments.
Static GK fact: Polychaetes are widely used as bioindicators due to their sensitivity and adaptability to environmental changes.
Bioindicators of coastal resilience
The research team, including experts from Mexico’s CICESE, observed that these worms thrive in polluted zones. Their presence reflects exceptional ecological resilience.
Scientists suggest that such species can be used to monitor coastal health and pollution levels. The discovery reinforces the need for systematic biodiversity assessments along India’s coastlines.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Hidden Marine Biodiversity off West Bengal Coast:
| Topic | Detail |
| Location of discovery | Digha and Bankiput, Purba Medinipur district |
| Newly identified species | Namalycastis solenotognatha and Nereis dhritiae |
| Discovering institution | Zoological Survey of India |
| Marine group | Polychaete nereidid worms |
| Ecological role | Nutrient cycling and sediment aeration |
| Habitat conditions | Polluted mudflats and submerged wooden structures |
| Bioindicator value | Reflects resilience of coastal ecosystems |
| Oceanic region | Northern Bay of Bengal |
