Discovery of Rare Marine Amphipod Species Stenothoe lowryi

Discovery of Rare Marine Amphipod Species Stenothoe lowryi

A rare marine amphipod species, Stenothoe lowryi, has recently been discovered along the Arjyapalli coast in Ganjam district of Odisha. The discovery was made by researchers from the Department of Marine Sciences, Berhampur University, led by Assistant Professor Dr. Seshadev Patro. This is the first recorded occurrence of this species in Indian marine waters, as it was previously known only from the Malaysian coast near Pangkor Island. The finding expands scientific understanding of marine biodiversity in the Bay of Bengal region.

Taxonomically, Stenothoe lowryi belongs to the family Stenothoidae and the order Amphipoda, a group of small crustaceans. The organism measures about 5.5 mm in length and resembles a small shrimp. A distinctive feature of this species is the presence of large claw-like appendages called gnathopods, which help it grasp food and cling to surfaces. It also possesses long antennae and a smooth body surface, adaptations suitable for life in dynamic coastal environments.