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What is "Climaconeis heteropolaris"?
- A team of Indian and international researchers has discovered a new species of diatom, a type of microscopic algae, in the estuarine waters of Udupi, Karnataka. The species, named Climaconeis heteropolaris sp. nov., is notable for its unusual heteropolar (unequal) valve shape, a distinguishing feature among diatoms.
- The discovery was made by Dr Radhakrishnan Cheran and Dr Karthick Balasubramanian of the Biodiversity & Paleobiology Group, Agharkar Research Institute, Pune; Dr Gokul Valsan and Dr Anish Kumar Warrier of the Centre for Climate Studies, Manipal Institute of Technology, MAHE; and Dr John Patrick Kociolek of the University of Colorado, Boulder, USA.
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Tiny organisms, known as diatoms, are microscopic, single-celled algae that play an outsized role in keeping our planet alive. Often referred to as the “jewels of the sea,” these intricately patterned microorganisms produce between 20% and 50% of Earth''s oxygen, forming the backbone of aquatic food webs from zooplankton to whales.
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Distinctive features of Climaconeis heteropolaris
- Describing the new species, Dr Anish Kumar Warrier told TOI that the diatom’s valves are lanceolate-clavate (club-shaped) with rounded ends, slightly broader in the middle and tapering towards the tips. They measure 76.5–120.5 µm in length and 9.5–14.5 µm in width, with intricate striae—fine lines that radiate near the centre, run parallel in the middle, and converge at the tips.
- A rectangular stauros (cross-like band) spans the valve, flanked by short striae, while areolae (microscopic pores) range from round to elongated. A straight raphe (slit) forms a distinctive ‘tuning fork’ pattern at the centre. Scanning electron microscope images reveal a largely flat valve surface with a gently curved mantle. Internally, the raphe is supported by longitudinal ribs and a raised stauros, with distal ends showing a unique ‘porte-crayon’ feature.
- The species was collected from the estuarine zone where the Sita and Swarna rivers merge before entering the Arabian Sea near Udupi.
Ecological and scientific significance
- Diatoms are single-celled algae found in oceans, rivers, and lakes. Renowned for their intricate silica cell walls (frustules), they exhibit an extraordinary variety of shapes and patterns. Diatoms form the foundation of aquatic food webs and contribute to nearly one-fourth of the global oxygen supply. Their fossilised remains are also valuable for climate and environmental reconstructions.
POSTED ON 02-09-2025 BY ADMIN
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