Groundbreaking Survey Uncovers Over 100 Ribbon Worm Species in Oman’s Waters.

A comprehensive survey of Oman's marine ecosystems has uncovered an impressive 107 species of ribbon worms (phylum Nemertea), marking the first systematic examination of these predatory marine invertebrates in Arabian waters. The research, published in PeerJ, was conducted by scientists from the University of Oregon, Moscow State University, and the University of Florida.

Through a combination of detailed morphological analysis and DNA barcoding, the team found that 98% of the identified species were previously undescribed. Furthermore, 93% appear to be exclusive to Arabian waters, indicating a high level of regional endemism. The findings effectively double the number of genetically documented ribbon worm species in the Indo-West Pacific—the world’s largest marine biogeographic zone.

Lead author Dr. Svetlana Maslakova of the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology noted the study’s broader implications, emphasizing how much remains unknown about tropical marine biodiversity. Notably, the research found minimal species overlap between the Gulf of Oman and the Sea of Arabia, suggesting distinct ecological environments.

Beyond ecological insights, the study has potential biomedical relevance, as ribbon worms produce bioactive compounds of interest to science. The researchers also estimate that up to 200 additional nemertean species may remain undiscovered in Oman, especially in understudied habitats like soft-bottom areas and the water column.

This international collaboration highlights the critical importance of ongoing marine biodiversity research in revealing and preserving oceanic life.

Source: https://phys.org/news/2025-05-ribbon-worm-diversity-oman-reveals.html

This is non-financial/medical advice and made using AI so could be wrong.