Microscopic Organism Discovered in Lakshadweep

Kalamassery: Researchers at CUSAT have discovered a microscopic crustacean belonging to the harpacticoid copepod group in the Kavarthi Lagoon of Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea. The organism was identified by Neelima Vasu, a researcher in the Department of Marine Biology at CUSAT.

The new species has been named Indyaphonte bijoyi in honour of Dr S. Bijoy Nandan, Senior Professor and researcher at the same department. The genus name, Indyaphonte, represents India, while the species name recognises Dr Bijoy Nandan. This marks the third organism to be named after him. The discovery and scientific classification of the species were carried out by Neelima Vasu, Dr Bijoy Nandan’s student.

Despite their minute size, these organisms play a vital role in the conservation of habitats that encompass both marine and freshwater ecosystems. They inhabit the seabed of coastal areas, feeding on microalgae, bacteria, and detritus. They are essential for the growth of fish and shellfish and contribute to human nutritional security. Additionally, they can serve as a natural feed for fish fry.