The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has made a remarkable discovery with the identification of a new species of sea slug along the coasts of West Bengal and Odisha. This unique species, named Melanochlamys droupadi, is dedicated to President Droupadi Murmu, marking an important milestone in marine biodiversity research.
Genus: The Melanochlamys genus is recognized for its short, blunt, cylindrical body structure. It features a smooth dorsal surface adorned with two distinct shields.
Appearance: This sea slug showcases a brownish-black coloration, distinguished by a prominent ruby-red spot located at its hind end. Notably, it possesses a shell incorporated within its body.
Size: Melanochlamys droupadi is a diminutive species, reaching a maximum length of approximately 7 mm.
Habitat: This species thrives in the intertidal zones of sandy beaches, where it leaves identifiable crawl marks.
Reproduction: The reproductive cycle of this species occurs between November and January, coinciding with favorable environmental conditions.
ZSI Director Dhriti Banerjee highlighted that the confirmation of this new species came after thorough examinations of its morphological, anatomical, and molecular features. The discovery of Melanochlamys droupadi enriches the understanding of biodiversity within the temperate regions of the Indo-Pacific Oceanic realm.
This finding underscores the presence of tropical species within the Melanochlamys genus and elevates the significance of coastal conservation efforts. The naming of this species after President Murmu pays tribute to her contributions to the nation, further linking scientific discovery with national pride.
The research team, which included notable scientists like Prasad Chandra Tudu, Sheikh Sajan, Smrutirekha Acharya, and Anil Mohapatra, provided vital insights into the species’ behavior. They observed its unique method of navigating beneath the sand, which prevents sand grains from entering its parapodial space.
This discovery not only enhances the scientific community's understanding of marine biodiversity but also stresses the urgent need for conservation efforts in coastal areas.
Q1. What is Melanochlamys droupadi?
Answer: Melanochlamys droupadi is a newly discovered species of sea slug found along the coasts of West Bengal and Odisha, named after President Droupadi Murmu. It is characterized by its unique morphology and behavior.
Q2. What are the key features of this sea slug?
Answer: This species has a brownish-black color, a ruby red spot on its hind end, and grows up to 7 mm in length. It has a cylindrical body and leaves crawl marks in its sandy habitat.
Q3. Where was Melanochlamys droupadi discovered?
Answer: Specimens were collected primarily from West Bengal near Digha and from Udaipur in Odisha, with deposits at various marine research centers.
Q4. Why is this discovery significant?
Answer: This discovery adds to the biodiversity of the Indo-Pacific region and highlights the importance of coastal conservation, emphasizing the presence of tropical species.
Q5. How does this sea slug avoid sand intrusion?
Answer: Melanochlamys droupadi employs a unique method of movement beneath the sand, which helps prevent sand grains from entering its parapodial space, aiding its survival.
Question 1: What is the new species of sea slug discovered by ZSI?
A) Melanochlamys droupadi
B) Aplysia droupadi
C) Doryteuthis droupadi
D) Notarchus droupadi
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: Where was Melanochlamys droupadi found?
A) Arabian Sea
B) Bay of Bengal
C) Indian Ocean
D) Andaman Sea
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What color is Melanochlamys droupadi?
A) Green
B) Blue
C) Brownish-black
D) Yellow
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: During which months does Melanochlamys droupadi reproduce?
A) March to May
B) June to August
C) November to January
D) February to April
Correct Answer: C
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