Deltachion Ravenshaw
Why in News?
Researchers have identified a new clam species, Deltachion ravenshaw, from the sandy intertidal region of the Devi Estuary near Astaranga in Puri district, Odisha.
Discovery and Team
- The Researchers: The discovery was made by a research team led by Prof. Dipti Raut, along with PhD scholars Sanjaya Dalai and Aparna Mishra from Ravenshaw University, in collaboration with J.G.M. Raven from the Naturalis Biodiversity Center in the Netherlands.
- The Location: The specimens were identified within the sandy, intertidal stretches of the Devi River Estuary near Astaranga in the Puri district of Odisha, India.
Taxonomy and Habitat
- Classification: It is a bivalve mollusc belonging to the family Donacidae (commonly known as wedge clams) under the order Veneroida.
- The Brackish Water Surprise: While Deltachion species are almost exclusively associated with purely marine (oceanic) environments, Deltachion ravenshaw was discovered in the brackish waters of an estuary where salinity levels heavily fluctuate.
- Biodiversity Hotspot: India currently documents 12 Donacidae species, 7 of which are recorded along the rich coastline of Odisha.
Physical Appearance
- Size: It is exceptionally tiny, measuring just about 6.9 mm.
- Shell Shape: It features an elongated, triangular shell that tapers into a distinctly pointed anterior (front) end.
- Distinct Markings: The posterior (back) part of its shell exhibits prominent, broad, and flat radial ribs. These intersect with fine microscopic lines, giving the clam a unique, lattice-like pattern that differentiates it from its closest relatives.
