Scientists discover two new deep-sea siphonophore species
Researchers from MBARI and other universities found two new deep-sea siphonophore species through DNA analysis and underwater observation.
A team examined museum specimens, submersible footage, and genomic data to identify these previously unknown deep-sea creatures accurately. They shared their detailed results in a peer-reviewed publication recently for global review.
Siphonophores are gelatinous animals related to jellies that act as dominant predators in the ocean midwater zone. Despite their ecological importance, studying these creatures remains difficult due to their fragile nature and deep habitat.
Scientists used advanced underwater robots to observe anatomy in natural environments while collecting delicate animals for laboratory study. They successfully sequenced DNA from a historical museum specimen preserved in formalin to resolve past taxonomic confusion.
The study identified seven species in video archives and one from collections, revealing two new species with unique colors. These new species represent distinct evolutionary lineages structured along depth gradients in the three-dimensional aquatic environment.