Namalycastis solenotognatha & Nereis dhritiae

Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), in collaboration with international experts, have discovered two new species of marine worms (polychaetes) from the coastal regions of West Bengal, highlighting the rich but fragile biodiversity of India’s northern Bay of Bengal coastline.

The discoveries were made in the Digha and Bankiput areas of Purba Medinipur district. The newly identified worms have been described as ecological “bio-warriors” due to their ability to survive in extreme and hostile environments where most marine life cannot persist.

Details of the findings have been published in a scientific study titled “Description of Two New Species of Nereidids (Annelida: Nereididae) from West Bengal, India, Bay of Bengal.”

One of the species has been named Namalycastis solenotognatha, derived from the Greek words “solenotos” (channeled) and “gnatha” (jaw). The name refers to its distinctive jaw structure, marked by numerous canals emerging from the pulp cavity. This species thrives in sulfide-rich, foul-smelling mudflats and is commonly found on decomposing mangrove wood and hardened clay, indicating its adaptation to highly stressful habitats.

The second species, Nereis dhritiae, has been named in honour of Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, the first woman Director of the Zoological Survey of India. This species was discovered inhabiting wooden dock piles on sandy beaches, which remain submerged during high tide.

Source: IE