Freshwater crab with both male and female traits discovered in Silent Valley
Why in news
Researchers discovered a freshwater crab exhibiting both male and female biological traits in Silent Valley National Park, part of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.
Species identified
The crab belongs to the species Vela carli.
It is endemic to the Central Western Ghats.
Found mainly in forests and stream habitats, including tree holes within the park.
Scientific phenomenon observed
Researchers documented Gynandromorphy.
Meaning:
A rare biological condition in which an organism simultaneously displays male and female characteristics on different parts of the body.
Key findings of the study
Three crabs showing this condition were discovered.
Their bodies showed:
Male reproductive structures in some regions
Female features such as gonopores in other parts
This is the first recorded case of gynandromorphy in the Gecarcinucidae family.
Significance
First-ever record of gynandromorphy in the freshwater crab family Gecarcinucidae.
Highlights the unique biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
Helps scientists understand developmental anomalies and evolutionary biology in crustaceans.
Shows the ecological importance of protected areas like Silent Valley.
Prelims Practice MCQs
Q. The species Vela carli, recently seen in the news, belongs to which of the following groups?
A. Marine mollusc
B. Freshwater crab
C. Amphibian
D. Freshwater fish
Answer: B
Explanation: Vela carli is a freshwater crab species endemic to the forests and streams of the Central Western Ghats.
Q. The biological phenomenon gynandromorphy refers to:
A. Organisms capable of changing sex during their life cycle
B. Presence of both male and female reproductive organs functioning simultaneously
C. Individuals displaying both male and female characteristics in different body parts
D. Asexual reproduction in crustaceans
Answer: C
Explanation: Gynandromorphy is a rare developmental condition where male and female traits occur in different parts of the same organism.
Q. The freshwater crab Vela carli belongs to which family?
A. Portunidae
B. Gecarcinucidae
C. Ocypodidae
D. Grapsidae
Answer: B
Explanation: Vela carli is a member of the Gecarcinucidae, a family of freshwater crabs found mainly in South and Southeast Asia.