ZSI discovers 2 new marine nematode species off TN coast

Kolkata: In a major boost to India's marine biodiversity records, researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered two new species of free-living marine nematodes along the Tamil Nadu coast.The findings, published on March 25, 2026, in the international taxonomy journal Zootaxa, highlight the ecological importance of microscopic marine life.The study, led by researchers Ritika Datta and Anjum Rizvi, identifies two species — Corononema dhriti and Epacanthion indica — both of which occupy distinct ecological roles within seabed sediments.Corononema dhriti is an exceptionally rare find, becoming only the fourth known species of its genus worldwide. The species has been named after ZSI's first woman director, Dhriti Banerjee, recognising her contributions to taxonomy and biodiversity research. The second species, Epacanthion indica, is notable for its complex anatomy. Unlike many nematodes that feed on microbes, it possesses specialised mandibles and tooth-like structures, making it a microscopic predator within the benthic food chain."These discoveries show how much of our marine biodiversity remains unexplored," said ZSI director Dhriti Banerjee. "Such organisms, though invisible to the naked eye, form the backbone of marine ecosystems and are crucial for sustaining coastal productivity," she added.Marine nematodes play vital ecological roles. They help recycle nutrients by breaking down organic matter, maintain sediment health and act as bio-indicators of environmental change.