ZSI Scientists Discover Two New Marine Worm Species on West Bengal Coast
Kolkata, February 5, 2026: A research team from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), in collaboration with international experts, has announced the discovery of two new species of nereidid worms (polychaetes) from the coastal waters of West Bengal. The findings, centered in the Digha and Bankiput regions of Purba Medinipur, highlight the rich yet vulnerable marine biodiversity of the northern Bay of Bengal.
The study, titled “Description of two new species of nereidids (Annelida: Nereididae) from West Bengal, India, Bay of Bengal,” details the unique characteristics and habitats of these newly identified marine annelids.
The New Species: A Closer Look
The discovery includes two distinct species, each named for their unique biological traits or in honor of scientific leadership:
- Namalycastis solenotognatha: Derived from the Greek words solenotos (channeled) and gnatha (jaw). This species features specialized jaws with numerous canals emerging from the pulp cavity. It thrives in extreme environments, including sulfide-rich, malodorous, and organically enriched mudflats, often found among decomposing mangrove wood and hardened clay.
- Nereis dhritiae: Named in honor of Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, the first women Director of the ZSI. This species was discovered dwelling within wooden dock piles on sandy beaches that are submerged during high tide.
Ecological Sentinels in Polluted Waters
Nereidids are vital to coastal health, playing a critical role in nutrient cycling and sediment aeration. Interestingly, the researchers—including Jyoshna Pradhan, Dr. Anil Mohapatra (ZSI), and Dr. Tulio F. Villalobos-Guerrero (CICESE, Mexico)—noted that these species were found in areas significantly impacted by human activity and pollution.
“The presence of these species in specialized, highly exposed, and even polluted habitats underscores the resilience of polychaetes,” the team stated. “These worms may serve as vital bioindicators for monitoring coastal health, though further studies are required to fully understand their potential for conservation.”
Significance of the Discovery
This finding adds a significant chapter to India’s marine inventory and emphasizes the urgent need for systematic exploration of the country’s vast coastline. As these habitats face increasing pressure from anthropogenic activities, the discovery of N. solenotognatha and N. dhritiae serves as a reminder of the hidden biodiversity that remains to be protected.
