Spatial variations in the Opisthobranch fauna in the Gulf of Kachchh- Western India

Opisthobranchs are the least studied molluscan group in India and the work done on this group is very limited. Having 8000 km long coastline with diverse habitats such as coral reefs, mangroves, sandy shores, rocky patches and... [ view full abstract ]

Opisthobranchs are the least studied molluscan group in India and the work done on this group is very limited. Having 8000 km long coastline with diverse habitats such as coral reefs, mangroves, sandy shores, rocky patches and large mudflats, records of Indian Opisthobranchs are very scarce. This study is a result of surveys carried out between 2004 to 2017 in the coral reef areas of the Gulf of Kachchh in western India. During the survey 80 species of opisthobranchs were recorded out of which, 36 are first records from India and some species still need validation / identification. The paper gives an overview of the work done between 2004 to 2017. The paper also describes the spatial variations in the occurrence of the selected group.