Vela carli

Why in News?

A tiny crab displaying both male and female biological traits on the same body has been discovered in the Western Ghats.

• Vela carli – It is an endemic freshwater crab found only in the forests and streams of the Central Western Ghats.
• Location – Discovered from the tree holes in the forests of the Silent Valley National Park.
• Observation – The dual-sex condition (both male and female at the same time) was observed in three crabs found here.

Gynandromorphy – A rare condition in which individuals exhibit both male and female characteristics.

• Traits – The bodies of the crabs displayed male reproductive structures, while other parts showcased female features, including gonopores.
• Rarity – Gynandromorphy has been documented in several marine and freshwater crab families; it is the first instance observed in the family Gecarcinucidae.
• Causes – Likely, could only be from intrinsic developmental processes rather than external environmental pollution.
• Survival Strategy – The crab’s habitat was free from environmental pollutants; the reason for the phenomenon could be related to survival tactics.
• Significance – This discovery highlights the biodiversity and micro‑ecosystem richness of Silent Valley National Park.

Reference

The Hindu | Crab in Silent Valley found displaying both male & female biological traits