New Marine Crustacean Species Discovered in Odisha's Intertidal Zone

A groundbreaking discovery by researchers at Berhampur University has led to the identification of a new species of marine amphipod, Elasmopus arjyaensis, from the intertidal zone of Arjyapalli. This finding not only increases the known Elasmopus species in India to twelve but also highlights the rich marine biodiversity of Odisha. The research, which utilized both morphological and DNA analysis, suggests that this species may have a wider distribution across the Indo-Pacific region. The study was funded by the Odisha State Higher Education Council, showcasing the importance of local research initiatives.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 29, 2026, 10:31 IST

Exciting Discovery in Marine Biodiversity

Berhampur: A team of scientists from the PG department of Marine Sciences at Berhampur University has unveiled a new species of marine amphipod along the rocky intertidal region of Arjyapalli. This newly identified crustacean, named ‘Elasmopus arjyaensis’, was recognized through a combination of morphological characteristics and DNA analysis, with findings published in an international journal focused on Marine Biodiversity.

This discovery brings the total number of Elasmopus species documented in India to twelve, underscoring the rich yet often overlooked marine biodiversity of Odisha. Researchers suggest that this species might have a broader distribution across the Indo-Pacific, as similar genetic sequences have also been found in China. The research was conducted by Shreeraj Nahak, Suman Patra, and Shesdev Patro, supported by funding from the ‘Mukhyamantri Research Innovation Extramural Programme’ of the Odisha State Higher Education Council.