Researchers at Berhampur University, Odisha, discovered a new species of marine amphipod. The species, named Parhyale odian, was found in Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.
Researchers and Discovery Process
- Shesdev Patro, assistant professor at Berhampur University, was one of the four researchers involved.
- The discovery increased the global species count of the genus Parhyale to 16.
- The findings were published in the journal Zootaxa on February 14, 2024.
Characteristics and Identification
- The species was collected from the intertidal region of Chilika lagoon in Odisha.
- It was found alongside seaweed Gracilaria on November 24, 2022.
- Parhyale odian differs from other species by its stout robust seta on the male gnathopod.
- It is brown in color, around eight millimeters in length, and has 13 pairs of legs.
Ecological Significance
- Amphipods, including Parhyale odian, are crucial in marine ecosystems.
- They play roles in the marine food chain and serve as indicators for climate change impacts.
- Further research will focus on understanding their specific ecological roles.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the name of the newly discovered species of marine amphipod?
- A) Parhyale chilikaensis
- B) Parhyale odian
- C) Parhyale ganjamensis
- D) Parhyale bengalensis
- Answer: B) Parhyale odian
- Where was the new species discovered?
- A) Arabian Sea
- B) Bay of Bengal
- C) Chilika Lake
- D) Indian Ocean
- Answer: C) Chilika Lake
- What distinguishes Parhyale odian from other species?
- A) Coloration
- B) Length
- C) Number of legs
- D) Stout robust seta on male gnathopod
- Answer: D) Stout robust seta on male gnathopod
- What is the ecological significance of amphipods?
- A) They are indicators of coastal pollution.
- B) They are crucial in the marine food chain.
- C) They regulate ocean temperatures.
- D) They produce oxygen through photosynthesis.
- Answer: B) They are crucial in the marine food chain.
- Where were the specimens of Parhyale odian deposited for further research?
- A) Berhampur University
- B) Zoological Survey of India, Gopalpur-On-Sea
- C) Chilika Lake Research Center
- D) University College Cork, Ireland
- Answer: B) Zoological Survey of India, Gopalpur-On-Sea