New species of terrestrial waterflea discovered in the Western Ghats – Nature.com

Zoologists Discover New Species of Terrestrial Waterflea in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra

Zoologists have made an exciting discovery in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. They have found a previously unknown species of terrestrial waterflea in water-coated moss on the walls and steps of abandoned forts. This discovery is significant in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as it highlights the importance of biodiversity conservation and the preservation of undisturbed habitats.

Background

Waterfleas are crustaceans that typically inhabit lakes, rivers, and ponds. However, some species have adapted to survive in thin water films on land. These boneless creatures are highly sensitive to environmental changes, making them excellent indicators of habitat quality.

The Discovery

Sameer Padhye at Biologia Life Science LLP in Ahmednagar collected moss samples from the Western Ghats. The samples contained ten adult females and a body part from an adult male. Padhye collaborated with Kay Van Damme at Mendel University in Brno, Czech Republic, to analyze the body features of the specimens.

The researchers identified the new species as Bryospilus bharaticus. Unlike other waterfleas, this species has lost its ability to swim and instead crawls in the thin water films that accumulate on mosses. The waterflea uses its antennae as “supports” to navigate through thick, debris-filled water films. The antennae are equipped with large spines that assist in sideways and forward movement.

Notably, the new species lacks a main eye since it lives in reduced light conditions and does not require color distinction for foraging. The moss habitats where these waterfleas reside dry out between monsoon seasons, leading the animals to reproduce sexually and produce “resting eggs.” These eggs hatch when the monsoon returns, ensuring the survival of the species.

Implications for Sustainable Development Goals

This discovery highlights the importance of achieving several SDGs:

1. SDG 14: Life Below Water – The presence of diverse waterflea species indicates a healthy aquatic ecosystem.
2. SDG 15: Life on Land – The adaptation of waterfleas to survive in thin water films on land demonstrates the resilience of terrestrial ecosystems.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action – The ability of waterfleas to reproduce and survive in changing environmental conditions emphasizes the need for climate resilience.
4. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – The discovery of a new species highlights the importance of preserving biodiversity and protecting undisturbed habitats.

In conclusion, the discovery of a new species of terrestrial waterflea in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra serves as a reminder of the rich biodiversity present in our natural ecosystems. It also underscores the importance of preserving undisturbed habitats to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The SDG that is addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article is SDG 15: Life on Land.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

The specific targets under SDG 15 that can be identified based on the article’s content are:

• Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements.
• Target 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and, by 2020, protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species.
• Target 15.9: By 2020, integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning, development processes, poverty reduction strategies, and accounts.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Indicator 15.1.1: Forest area as a proportion of total land area
• Indicator 15.5.1: Red List Index
• Indicator 15.9.1: Progress towards national targets established in accordance with Aichi Biodiversity Target 2 of the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020

4. SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: nature.com