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ZSI Researchers Discover Two New Marine Nematode Species

  • 08 Apr 2026

In findings published in March 2026, researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovered two new species of free-living marine nematodes along the Tamil Nadu coast, enriching India’s marine biodiversity records.

Key Points

  • New Species Discovered:
    • Corononema Dhriti; and
    • Epacanthion indica.
  • Significance of Corononema dhriti:
    • Only the fourth known species of its genus globally.
    • Previously found in Australia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
    • Named after Dhriti Banerjee.
  • Significance of Epacanthion indica:
    • Named after India.
    • Possesses specialised mandibles and teeth.
    • Functions as a microscopic predator in marine ecosystems.
  • Ecological Importance of Marine Nematodes:
    • Play a key role in nutrient cycling.
    • Maintain sediment health and stability.
    • Act as bio-indicators of environmental changes.