Taningia silasii
Why in news?
Taningia silasii is a newly discovered giant deep-sea squid species, commonly called the “Indian octopus squid,” found in the Arabian Sea off the Kerala coast.
Key points
- Taxonomic position: New giant deep-sea squid of family Octopoteuthidae, genus Taningia, named Taningia silasii.
- Discovering institution: Identified and described by scientists of ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI) with collaborators.
- Uniqueness: Only the second known species of the genus Taningia, distinct from Taningia danae morphologically and genetically.
- Size: Female type specimen around 40–45 cm mantle length and about 1.5–2 kg, indicating a large deep-sea squid.
- Morphology: Has eight arms and no long tentacles, robust body, and diagnostic internal characters (gill structure, funnel–mantle locking cartilage, beak form).
- Genetic distinctness: Shows high mitochondrial DNA divergence (over 10%) from T. danae, confirming it as a separate species.
- Etymology: Named in honour of eminent Indian marine biologist Dr E. G. Silas.
- Ecological significance: Highlights hidden deep-sea biodiversity of the Arabian Sea and the need for further deep-sea exploration and conservation.
