New Marine Worm Species:
Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have uncovered two new marine worm species (polychaetes) namely Namalycastis solenotognatha and Nereis dhritiae of from the Nereidid family coasts of West Bengal.
New Marine Worm Species:
- Namalycastis solenotognatha: Ideal conditions for its survival are extreme environments, sulfide-rich, foul-smelling mudflats, and they are mostly found on decomposing mangrove wood and hardened clay.
- Nereis dhritiae: This species was found living inside wooden dock piles on sandy beaches, which are submerged during times of high tide.
- They help maintain coastal health, and they play a major role in nutrient cycling and sediment aeration.
- These species of marine worms were found in areas that were heavily impacted by human activities and subject to pollution.
- These worms can serve as vital bioindicators and help in monitoring coastal health.
