Scientists in Kerala have declared a remarkable new deep-sea ‘octopus squid’ species discovered off the state’s coastline. The species, Taningia silasii, also known as the Indian octopus squid, was discovered from the Arabian Sea at an impressive depth of nearly 390 metres, signaling a critical expansion in our understanding of cephalopod diversity.

This breakthrough was made by researchers at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), and its implications extend well beyond regional marine biology.

Scientific Significance of the Discovery

The discovery of the new deep-sea ‘octopus squid’ species is not just a local achievement, as Taningia silasii is only the second confirmed species in the globally rare genus Taningia.

Measuring 45 cm in dorsal mantle length, the specimen was collected by a commercial deep-sea trawler off the Kollam coast. Not like several other squids, this species belongs to the family Octopoteuthidae, and adult individuals lack the two long feeding tentacles characteristic of most squids – rather, they have just eight arms, giving them a superficially octopus-like look.

Genetic analysis played an important role in confirming the novelty of this species, as the DNA barcoding showed more than 11 percent divergence between T. silasii and its closest known relative, Taningia danae, found in the Atlantic. Additionally, detailed morphological studies display that T. silasii has fewer gill lamellae (about 26) as compared to T. danae (which has 38 to 44), as well as a uniquely structured funnel-mantle cartilage and distinctive beak structure.

This discovery also pays tribute – T. silasii was named in honour of Dr E. G. Silas, a pioneering marine biologist and former director of CMFRI, in recognition of his substantial contributions to cephalopod research. In a major context, there are nearly 400 known squid species around the world, ranging from shallow coastal waters to deep-ocean trenches, and the identification of this new deep-sea ‘octopus squid’ species discovered off Kerala displays a picture of how much more remains hidden in the ocean’s depths.

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Key Findings from Marine Researchers

• The research team was led by CMFRI Principal Scientist Dr Geetha Sasikumar and Technical Officer Sajikumar K.K., with critical support from researchers Shijin Ameri and Toji Thomas.
• In spite of its common name, the “octopus squid” is a true squid but has only eight arms, lacking the two long tentacles usually seen, and that’s a rare trait among squids.
• Molecular studies showed over 11% genetic divergence from the Atlantic species Taningia danae, confirming that Taningia silasii is a distinct species.
• The naming of this new deep-sea ‘octopus squid’ species discovered honours Dr E. G. Silas, acknowledging his lifelong dedication to marine biology and cephalopod taxonomy in India.

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The Bottom Line

The confirmation of Taningia silasii marks a compelling milestone in marine science: the new deep-sea ‘octopus squid’ species discovered in Kerala waters deeply enriches our comprehension of oceanic biodiversity. This finding not only highlights the hidden richness of the Arabian Sea but also underscores the importance of sustained deep-sea exploration.

As researchers continue to investigate its ecology, behavior, and potential distribution, T. silasii promises to open new avenues for studying cephalopod evolution, and perhaps to uncover yet more undiscovered species lurking in the abyss.

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