Scientists in California found something extraordinary hiding in the ocean's midnight zone: a new species of glowing sea slug, according to The Guardian.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute team first spotted the "mystery mollusc" in 2000, about 8,500 feet below the surface. Over the next 20 years, they carefully documented more than 100 of these unique animals to create the most detailed description ever made of a deep sea species.
Unlike other sea slugs that stick to the ocean floor, this one, named Bathydevius caudactylus, freely swims through the deep water column between 3,300 and 13,100 feet deep. It has a see-through body with a large hood and flat tail with finger-like edges, and it produces its own light through bioluminescence.
🗣️ Which of these environmental causes would you be most interested in supporting with a financial donation?
🔘 Promoting clean energy 🔋
🔘 Protecting clean air 🌄
🔘 Advancing forest conservation 🌲
🔘 Fighting climate change 🌎
🗳️ Click your choice to see results and speak your mind
This discovery opens up exciting possibilities for ocean research and protection. As we learn more about life in the deep sea, we gain valuable knowledge about how to preserve these unexplored ecosystems that help maintain ocean health for wildlife and future generations.
The research provides fresh insights into how sea creatures adapt and thrive in extreme environments. By studying these adaptations, scientists can better grasp the incredible diversity of ocean life and develop more effective conservation strategies to protect marine habitats.
Finding new species such as this glowing sea slug reminds us that our oceans hold countless stories. Each discovery brings us closer to understanding and safeguarding these underwater worlds for our children and grandchildren.
"We've invested more than 20 years in understanding the natural history of this fascinating species of nudibranch," said Bruce Robison, a senior scientist with the institute. "Our discovery is a new piece of the puzzle that can help better understand the largest habitat on Earth."
Steven Haddock, another senior scientist at the research institute, added, "For there to be a relatively large, unique, and glowing animal that is in a previously unknown family really underscores the importance of using new technology to catalog this vast environment."
Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Cool Picks
