Scientists have made an exciting breakthrough with the discovery of at least 20 new species in the depths of the Pacific Ocean. This remarkable finding was the result of a research initiative by the California Academy of Sciences, which involved the retrieval of 13 advanced monitoring devices from deep coral reefs located in Guam. These devices, referred to as autonomous reef monitoring structures (ARMS), have been diligently collecting valuable data since 2018.
The ARMS were strategically placed at depths of up to 330 feet below the ocean's surface, an area known for its low light levels and challenging environmental conditions. Over a two-week period in November, scientists successfully retrieved approximately 2,000 specimens, uncovering 100 species previously unknown to the region. Luiz Rocha, the Ichthyology curator at the California Academy of Sciences, shared insights with NPR, indicating that further analysis could reveal more than 20 new species as the research progresses.
Rocha emphasized the importance of genetic analysis in confirming new species. “One of the things we do is confirm everything with genetics. We sequence the DNA of the species before we even really make absolutely sure that they're new,” he explained. This meticulous process sometimes leads to unexpected discoveries, as species initially thought to be familiar may turn out to be genetically distinct. Potential new species identified include various crabs, sponges, ascidians (sea squirts), and new types of gorgonians, which are a unique class of coral.
The deep coral reefs studied reside in an area of the ocean commonly referred to as the twilight zone, or mesopelagic zone, which is characterized by minimal sunlight penetration. This region presents significant challenges for researchers due to its high pressure and the need for specialized diving equipment. Rocha's team conducted their research in the upper twilight zone, ranging from 180 to 330 feet below the surface.
While Rocha and his team were prepared for the possibility of encountering new species, one particular discovery took them by surprise. They observed a hermit crab utilizing a clam shell as its home, a behavior that deviates from the norm of these crabs typically residing in abandoned snail shells. Rocha recounted his amazement when he first saw the image, stating, “When they first showed me the picture of it, I couldn't even tell what animal it was.” This unique adaptation highlights the incredible diversity and resilience of marine life in the deep ocean.
Rocha and his team have embarked on a two-year expedition to recover an additional 76 deep reef monitoring devices across the Pacific Ocean, with plans to explore regions such as Palau and French Polynesia. Despite the inherent difficulties in studying deep coral reefs, Rocha underscores the importance of this research. “They should be protected and should have importance because they are home to hundreds of thousands of different species, and they should have as much right to exist as we do,” he stated.
The ongoing exploration of the Pacific Ocean's deep coral reefs is crucial not only for scientific discovery but also for the conservation of these vital ecosystems. As researchers continue to uncover the mysteries of the ocean, they pave the way for increased awareness and protection of marine biodiversity.