Leiogalathea samudragiri & Squat Lobster - Meaning, Features, Distribution and Importance

Recently, Indian marine researchers discovered a new species of squat lobster near the Lakshadweep Islands coral reef ecosystem. The species has been scientifically named Leiogalathea samudragiri. This discovery is important because Lakshadweep is a sensitive and under-explored marine biodiversity hotspot, especially for reef-dwelling crustaceans.

What is Leiogalathea samudragiri ?

Leiogalathea samudragiri is a new species of squat lobster, a marine crustacean that resembles a small lobster but is not a true lobster.

Key characteristics of the discovery

• Member of the squat lobster group (closer to hermit crabs than true lobsters)
• Found in Lakshadweep coastal coral reef region
• Lives in deep or reef-associated marine habitats
• Small sized, flattened body with large forward claws
• Adds a new species to India’s marine biodiversity record
• Indicates unexplored biodiversity in island ecosystems

What are Squat Lobsters ?

Squat lobsters are marine crustaceans that look like miniature lobsters, but biologically they belong to a different evolutionary branch.

Taxonomic relationship

• Closely related to: hermit crabs and porcelain crabs
• Distantly related to: true lobsters

Physical and Behavioral Features

• Abdomen folded beneath thorax → body looks short and thick
• Long front claws (chelae)
• Often bright red, orange, or spotted — camouflage among corals
• Escape by rapidly flicking tail backward
• Live under rocks, inside reefs, and on deep-sea floor

Distribution

• Found in all major oceans worldwide
• Occur from shallow reefs to deep sea
• Highest diversity in tropical waters
• Therefore, Lakshadweep reefs are significant biodiversity zones

Importance

Ecological importance

1. Important component of marine food chains
2. Indicator species for coral reef ecosystem health
3. Help recycle organic matter on sea floor

Scientific importance

• Discovery of new species helps in:
  • Climate change studies
  • Marine conservation planning
  • Understanding deep-sea biodiversity