Researchers Named after ISRO New species of Isopod Discovered in Kollam

Researchers have made an exciting discovery off the coast of Kollam in Kerala. They have found a new species of deep-sea isopod, which is a tiny crustacean that feeds on fish. This new species belongs to the genus Brucethoa and was found living inside the gill cavity of a fish called the Spinyjaw greeneye.

Honouring India’s Space Agency

This new species of isopod has been given a special name – Brucethoa isro. The name is a tribute to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which has achieved remarkable success in space missions. Brucethoa isro is only the second species within the Brucethoa genus to be discovered in India.

Size Matters

One interesting fact about Brucethoa isro is that the females are significantly larger than the males. Female isopods of this species can grow up to 19mm in length and 6mm in width, while males are only about half that size.

What are Isopods?

Isopods are a fascinating group of invertebrates that belong to the larger family of crustaceans, which includes crabs and shrimp. They are found in a wide range of habitats, from deserts to mountains, and even in the depths of the ocean.

Unique Features

Despite their diversity, isopods share some common features:

• Two pairs of antennae
• Compound eyes
• Four sets of jaws
• Seven body segments, each with a pair of walking legs
• A small abdominal segment with six fused segments called “plions”

While many isopods live in the ocean, others inhabit coastal and shelf waters, either moving around on the seafloor or living in plants. Some marine species are even parasitic, living off other animals.

About Kollam

Kollam, the city where the new isopod species was discovered, is a coastal city in Kerala. It is home to the famous Ashtamudi Lake, a popular boating attraction for tourists. The Kollam canal also runs through the city, connecting it to the waterway systems of the country.

Kollam is surrounded by beaches and forests, making it a hub for eco-tourism projects like Shenduruni, Thenmala, and Palaruvi. The city’s diverse natural surroundings make it an ideal location for discovering new species like Brucethoa isro.

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