New Soil Nematode Species Discovered in Odisha, India, Named in Honour of Director, Zoological Survey of India
Kolkata, 4th March 2025: Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Kolkata, have announced the discovery of a new species of soil-dwelling nematode, Crassolabium dhritiae, in the Deccan Peninsular Biogeographic Zone of Keonjhar District, Odisha. This significant finding, published online in Acta Zoologica Bulgarica on January 18, 2025, highlights the rich biodiversity of this understudied region and underscores the crucial role of nematodes in soil ecosystems.
The newly identified species, Crassolabium dhritiae, is named in honour of Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, Director of the Zoological Survey of India, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to zoology and taxonomic research.
The discovery was made by a research team led by Dr. Debabrata Sen, along with Dr. G. P. Mandal and Mr. Samprit Deb Roy, all from ZSI, Kolkata. The print version of the research is scheduled for publication in the March 2025 issue of Acta Zoologica Bulgarica.
Dr. Dhriti Banerjee congratulated the researchers and emphasized the importance of soil nematodes, stating, “These microscopic organisms, though often overlooked, are vital to soil health and play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. Their diverse feeding habits contribute significantly to maintaining a balanced and healthy soil ecosystem.”
Crassolabium dhritiae is characterized by its medium-sized, slender body, rounded lip region, wide odontostyle, long pharynx, specific features in its female reproductive system, and a distinct tail shape. While the feeding habits of the Crassolabium genus are still being studied, they are known to include predatory and omnivorous behaviors.
Dr. Debabrata Sen explained, “This discovery is a significant addition to our understanding of nematode biodiversity. Crassolabium dhritiae brings the total number of known Crassolabium species worldwide to 39, with nine now recorded in India. This highlights the importance of continued research in these understudied ecosystems.”
The discovery was published online in:
• Sen, D., Deb Roy, S. and Mandal, G. P. 2025. A New Species of the Genus Crassolabium Yeates, 1967 (Nematoda: Dorylaimidae: Labronematinae) from India. Acta Zoologica Bulgarica, (in press). https://acta-zoologica-bulgarica.eu/2025/002828
This research underscores the ongoing efforts of the Zoological Survey of India to explore and document the nation’s rich biodiversity, contributing to a greater understanding of our natural world.
