A research team from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), in collaboration with international experts, has announced the discovery of two new species of worms (polychaetes) from the coastal waters of West Bengal. The findings, centered in Digha and Bankiput regions of Purba Medinipur district, highlight the rich yet vulnerable marine biodiversity of the northern Bay of Bengal, a ZSI statement said on Thursday. ADVERTISEMENTThe study, titled 'Description of two new species of nereididae (Annelida: Nereididae) from West Bengal, India, Bay of Bengal,' details the unique characteristics and habitats of these newly identified marine annelids. The second species has been named in honour of Dhriti Banerjee, the first woman director of the Zoological Survey of India. "Nereidids are vital to coastal health, playing a critical role in nutrient cycling and sediment aeration.

Source: The Telegraph February 05, 2026 12:52 UTC