New Roundworm Species Discovered by Scientists in Odisha

Odisha : The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has announced the discovery of a new species of soil-dwelling roundworm in Keonjhar district, Odisha. The species, named Crassolabium dhritiae, has been identified by a research team led by Dr. Debabrata Sen, with Dr. G. P. Mandal and Samprit Deb Roy as co-researchers. The species is named in honor of ZSI Director Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to zoology and taxonomic research.

The discovery was made within the ‘Deccan Peninsula Biogeographic Zone,’ a region known for its diverse and unique ecological characteristics. According to the ZSI, this microscopic organism plays a vital role in maintaining soil health by contributing to nutrient cycling and the decomposition of organic matter. Their diverse feeding habits help sustain a balanced and healthy soil ecosystem, making them essential for agricultural and environmental sustainability.

Dr. Banerjee emphasized the significance of the discovery, stating, “These microscopic organisms, though often overlooked, are crucial for soil health. They regulate the microbial community, recycle nutrients, and support plant growth, which ultimately benefits the entire ecosystem.”

Crassolabium dhritiae is characterized by its medium-sized, slender body, a rounded lip region, an elongated pharynx, and specific features in its female reproductive system. Additionally, it has a distinctively shaped tail, which differentiates it from other species within the Crassolabium genus. This discovery adds to the growing body of knowledge about nematode biodiversity and highlights the need for further exploration of soil-dwelling organisms in India’s diverse ecosystems.

The ZSI has stated that this new finding underscores the importance of continued taxonomic research in lesser-explored regions. Given the ecological significance of nematodes, further studies on their interactions with soil microorganisms and their potential applications in sustainable agriculture could provide valuable insights.

This discovery is expected to inspire further research in nematology and soil ecology. Scientists are now keen to explore the potential roles of Crassolabium dhritiae in biocontrol measures, as some roundworm species are known to help manage harmful pests in agricultural lands. The identification of this new species adds to the total number of known nematodes and enriches the scientific understanding of India’s rich biodiversity.