Researchers have identified at least 20 potential new species in deep parts of the Pacific Ocean. This discovery follows an expedition conducted by scientists from the California Academy of Sciences.
Research Methodology
The findings resulted from the retrieval of 13 autonomous reef monitoring structures (ARMS). These devices had been deployed since 2018 in deep coral reefs off Guam, collecting data up to 330 feet below the ocean surface, an area characterized by limited light.
Discoveries and Analysis
Over a two-week period in November, the scientific team retrieved approximately 2,000 specimens. Initial analysis revealed 100 species previously unrecorded in the region. Luiz Rocha, Ichthyology curator at the California Academy of Sciences and a member of the diving exhibition, stated that further genetic analysis is expected to confirm more than 20 new species. This genetic sequencing process can also reveal new species among those initially thought to be known.
Potential new species identified include various crabs, sponges, ascidians (sea squirts), and gorgonians (a type of coral).
The Deep-Sea Environment
Deep coral reefs inhabit a region of the ocean known as the "twilight zone," or mesopelagic zone, which receives minimal sunlight. This environment, particularly at depths studied (180-330 feet), presents challenges for scientific exploration due to pressure and the requirement for specialized diving equipment.
A notable observation during the expedition was a hermit crab utilizing a clam shell for shelter, a deviation from their typical use of abandoned snail shells.
Ongoing Expeditions
The research team has commenced a two-year expedition to retrieve an additional 76 deep reef monitoring devices deployed across other Pacific Ocean locations, including Palau and French Polynesia.
Importance of Research
Studying deep coral reefs is considered essential for understanding their ecosystems and biodiversity. These habitats support a wide array of species.