Scientists Identify New Earthworm Species in Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary

New Earthworm Species Drawida vazhania Discovered in Kerala’s Western Ghats

Researchers have identified a new species of earthworm named Drawida vazhania in Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary . The discovery was made near the Vazhani Dam region of Thrissur . This finding highlights the remarkable but still insufficiently studied biodiversity of the Western Ghats , which is internationally recognised for its rich ecological diversity and high levels of endemic species.

Discovery in a Biodiversity-Rich Sanctuary

The new species was located within forest ecosystems of the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary , a region forming part of the Western Ghats landscape. These forests contain varied habitats including moist deciduous woodland and riverine ecosystems, making them ideal environments for diverse soil organisms.

Discoveries of lesser-known organisms such as earthworms demonstrate the ecological importance of protected forest areas in conserving species that often remain unnoticed despite playing essential ecological roles.

Taxonomic Classification

The species Drawida vazhania belongs to the genus Drawida , which occurs primarily in South, Southeast and East Asia. It is classified under the family Moniligastridae .

Scientists have placed the new species within the Barwelli species group , whose members are generally characterised by relatively small body size and specific anatomical features used for classification.

Distinctive Biological Characteristics

Researchers distinguished the new species based on several structural and reproductive characteristics. Notable features include a grooved male genital field, a kidney-shaped prostate gland, a narrow tubular C-shaped prostatic capsule and a small sessile atrium located on the body wall.

Such anatomical details are crucial in earthworm taxonomy because many species appear externally similar. Careful examination of internal structures allows scientists to differentiate and accurately classify species.

Importance for Soil Biodiversity

The identification of Drawida vazhania contributes to a deeper understanding of soil biodiversity in the Western Ghats. Earthworms play a critical ecological role by improving soil structure, enhancing nutrient cycling and supporting plant growth through their burrowing activity.

With this discovery, the number of Drawida species recorded in India has increased to 83 , including 55 species documented from the Western Ghats . The finding reinforces the importance of continued biological surveys and conservation initiatives in this globally significant ecological region.

Exam-Focused Points

• Drawida vazhania was discovered in Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary .

• The sanctuary lies in the Western Ghats , one of the world’s major biodiversity hotspots.

• The species belongs to the genus Drawida and family Moniligastridae .

• Earthworms play a key role in soil aeration, nutrient cycling and ecosystem functioning .

• India currently records 83 species of the genus Drawida , with a majority found in the Western Ghats.