Researchers have recently discovered a new species of deep-sea isopod off the Kollam coast.
Naming the Species
The newly discovered species belongs to the genus Brucethoa and has been named Brucethoa isro, in honor of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Habitat and Host
Brucethoa isro was found at the base of the gill cavity of the Spinyjaw greeneye, a marine fish species.
Contributors to the Discovery
The identification of Brucethoa isro was conducted by a team including P. T. Aneesh, A.K. Helna, and A. Biju Kumar, who are associated with various research institutions.
Significance and Contribution
This discovery contributes to the understanding of marine parasitism, particularly in the context of deep-sea ecosystems.
Morphological Characteristics
- Females of Brucethoa isro tend to be larger than males.
- Female specimens reach approximately 19 mm in length and 6 mm in width, while males are about half the size.
Taxonomic Insights
Brucethoa isro is the second species within its genus documented in India, shedding light on the taxonomy and distribution of deep-sea isopods in the region.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the name of the newly discovered species of deep-sea isopod?
- A) Brucethoa kollamensis
- B) Brucethoa isro
- C) Brucethoa marinus
- D) Brucethoa abyssus
- Answer: B) Brucethoa isro
- Why was the new species named Brucethoa isro?
- A) In honor of its habitat
- B) After the discoverer
- C) In recognition of ISRO’s achievements
- D) Randomly chosen name
- Answer: C) In recognition of ISRO’s achievements
- Where was Brucethoa isro discovered?
- A) Mediterranean Sea
- B) Gulf of Mexico
- C) Kollam coast
- D) Bay of Bengal
- Answer: C) Kollam coast
- What is the host of Brucethoa isro?
- A) Deep-sea snails
- B) Spinyjaw greeneye fish
- C) Giant squids
- D) Humpback whales
- Answer: B) Spinyjaw greeneye fish
- What is the significance of discovering Brucethoa isro?
- A) It contributes to understanding marine parasitism
- B) It is the largest isopod species ever discovered
- C) It poses a threat to marine biodiversity
- D) It is a common species found worldwide
- Answer: A) It contributes to understanding marine parasitism