New Copepod Species Discovered in Lakshadweep Lagoon

Scientists have identified a tiny crustacean from the Kavaratti lagoon in Lakshadweep as a completely new genus and species, underscoring the rich but underexplored marine biodiversity of India’s island ecosystems. The microscopic organism belongs to the family Laophontidae under the Copepoda class and can only be studied using high-powered microscopes due to its minute size.

Discovery from Kavaratti Lagoon

The organism was collected from the lagoon ecosystem of Kavaratti lagoon and later confirmed as a new taxonomic entity through detailed morphological examination. Initially indistinguishable from known copepods, further analysis revealed unique structural traits that did not correspond to any existing genus within the Laophontidae family.

Naming and Scientific Description

The new species has been named “Indiaphonte bijoyi”. The genus name ‘Indiaphonte’ honours India, while the species name recognises S. Bijoy Nandan, a senior marine scientist and academician. The species was formally described by Neelima Vasu K. of Cochin University of Science and Technology in collaboration with Samuel E. Gómez-Noguera of UNAM University. The findings have been published in an international peer-reviewed taxonomic journal.

Morphology and Ecological Role

“Indiaphonte bijoyi” has a semi-cylindrical, slightly flattened body that tapers towards the rear, with antenna-like appendages at the front. Females measure between 518 and 772 micrometres, marginally larger than males, which range from 508 to 756 micrometres. The species belongs to meiofauna—tiny invertebrates living within aquatic sediments—and plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling and ecosystem stability.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• “Indiaphonte bijoyi” is a new genus and species of copepod discovered in Lakshadweep.
• It belongs to the family Laophontidae under the order Harpacticoida.
• Meiofauna are invertebrates smaller than one millimetre living in sediments.
• Harpacticoid copepods act as bio-indicators of marine environmental change.

Importance for Marine Science and Conservation

Harpacticoid copepods are known to synthesise omega-3 fatty acids essential for fish growth and human nutrition. Their sensitivity to pollution, oil spills, heavy metals, and climate change makes them reliable indicators of ecosystem health. The discovery highlights the need for continued taxonomic research and conservation focus on India’s fragile lagoon and reef ecosystems.