A Brief Overview on Lingula Species (Brachiopoda: Lingulidae)
Soma Garani *
Department Fish Nutrition, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Science, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
Deowan Tufan Badsha
Department of Life Science, Adamas University, Barasat - Barrackpore Road, Jagannathpur, Kolkata, West Bengal 700126, India.
Sanjay Dey
Department of Zoology, Ananda Mohan College, 102/1, Raja Rammohan Sarani, Kolkata – 700009, India.
Neeraj Pathak
Department of Fishery Science, The Neotia University, West Bengal,743368, India.
Nehara Khatun
Department of Zoology, Egra S.S.B College, Egra (Bajkul Road), Purba Medinipur, West Bengal-721601, India.
Subhrodipto B. Choudhury
Department of E & TC, ISBM College of Engg., Pune, Maharashtra, 412115, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Lingula Bruguière, 1791, a living fossil within the brachiopod phylum, represents a critical link to early marine life, with origins tracing back to the Cambrian Period. Despite its superficial resemblance to bivalve mollusks, Lingula is characterized by distinctive anatomical features such as a lophophore and inarticulate shells, which have enabled its survival across various marine environments, particularly in the Indo-West Pacific region. This study explores Lingula’s ecological role, its significance in marine biodiversity, and its economic importance in coastal communities. By examining its unique evolutionary adaptations and long-standing presence in marine ecosystems, the research highlights the necessity of conserving Lingula as a vital component of marine heritage. This preservation is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and furthering our understanding of one of Earth's oldest living organisms.
Keywords: Linguliformea, Lingulata, Lingulida, Linguloidea