Daily Current Affairs : 28-September-2023
In a significant scientific breakthrough, researchers at the Cochin University of Science and Technology have recently unveiled a fascinating discovery – a new species of marine tardigrade named Batillipes kalami. This groundbreaking find has stirred the scientific community, shedding light on the incredible biodiversity thriving in the Indian waters, particularly off the coast of Mandapam in south-east Tamil Nadu.
The Discovery of Batillipes Kalami
- Genus Identification
- The newly discovered species belongs to the genus Batillipes, making it the 37th species within this genus.
- Geographical Significance
- Batillipes kalami marks a significant milestone as the second marine tardigrade species to be found in Indian waters.
- Notably, it is the first marine tardigrade discovered on the east coast of India, adding a unique dimension to our understanding of the region’s marine biodiversity.
- Taxonomic Significance
- This discovery holds historical importance as it is the first taxonomically described species belonging to the genus Batillipes from India, enriching the country’s biological records.
Physical Characteristics of Batillipes Kalami
- Distinctive Head Structure
- The tardigrade boasts a trapezoid-shaped head, a unique characteristic setting it apart from other species.
- The head features sharp-tipped filament-like appendages, known as cirri, extending from it, enhancing its sensory perception.
- Sensory Spines
- All four pairs of legs are equipped with sensory spines of varying lengths, showcasing the intricate adaptations that enable this species to thrive in its environment.
Understanding Tardigrades: Nature’s Tiny Survivors
- Introduction to Tardigrades
- Tardigrades, colloquially known as water bears, are remarkable eight-legged micro-animals predominantly found in aquatic environments.
- These minuscule creatures are measured in micrometres, emphasizing their diminutive size yet astonishing complexity.
- Resilience and Survival Instincts
- Tardigrades are renowned for their extraordinary resilience, with the ability to withstand extreme conditions such as high radiation, freezing temperatures, and even the vacuum of space.
- Their exceptional survival instincts have intrigued scientists worldwide, sparking numerous studies to unravel the secrets behind their robust nature.
Important Points:
Discovery of Batillipes Kalami:
- Researchers at Cochin University of Science and Technology discovered a new marine tardigrade species named Batillipes kalami.
- It belongs to the genus Batillipes, making it the 37th species within this genus.
- Discovered off the coast of Mandapam in south-east Tamil Nadu, it is the second marine tardigrade found in Indian waters.
- Notably, it is the first marine tardigrade discovered on the east coast of India.
- This discovery is the first taxonomically described species belonging to the genus Batillipes from India.
Physical Characteristics of Batillipes Kalami:
- The species has a trapezoid-shaped head with cirri, sharp-tipped filament-like appendages, enhancing its sensory perception.
- All four pairs of legs possess sensory spines of varying lengths, indicating unique adaptations for survival.
Understanding Tardigrades:
- Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are eight-legged micro-animals primarily found in aquatic environments.
- They are incredibly tiny, measured in micrometres, yet exhibit extraordinary resilience and survival instincts.
- Tardigrades can withstand extreme conditions such as high radiation, freezing temperatures, and the vacuum of space, sparking scientific interest in their remarkable abilities.
Why In News
Researchers at the Cochin University of Science and Technology have made a significant breakthrough in marine biology by identifying a new species of marine tardigrade, named “Batillipes kalami,” shedding light on the incredible biodiversity of our oceans and emphasizing the importance of further exploration and conservation efforts. This discovery marks a crucial step in understanding the intricate web of life in underwater ecosystems.
MCQs about Discovery of Batillipes Kalami
-
What is the significance of Batillipes Kalami’s discovery?
A. It’s the 37th species in its genus.
B. It’s the first marine tardigrade discovered on India’s east coast.
C. It’s the largest tardigrade species found in Indian waters.
D. It’s the only species of its genus discovered in India.
-
What is the distinctive feature of Batillipes Kalami’s head?
A. Circular shape
B. Trapezoid shape with cirri
C. Square shape with antennae
D. Oval shape with spines
-
Why are tardigrades like Batillipes Kalami known as water bears?
A. Due to their large size in water
B. Because they are often found near bear habitats
C. Because they resemble bears under a microscope
D. A colloquial term for their appearance and resilience
-
What does the discovery of Batillipes Kalami emphasize?
A. India’s population of marine mammals
B. The need for conservation of marine tardigrades
C. The importance of continued exploration of marine biodiversity
D. The discovery of rare and exotic marine species
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
