Surviving the extreme conditions of the deep sea is certainly a feat, but so is remaining unfazed by the sight of those strange creatures who have succeeded in such a challenge. Batfish and orbe eels are just some of the beings discovered by an Australian research mission. Let’s discover them together.
The science vessel operated by the “Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation” (CSIRO), Australia’s national science agency, has in fact mapped in detail, and for the first time, a large area in the Indian Ocean, off the remote “Cocos Islands Marine Park” in Australia, collecting samples at a depth of almost 5000 meters below the surface.
During the journey, which lasted 35 days and ended on November 3, the ship covered almost 12,000 km of distance, taking pictures of different creatures never seen before. Among these unknown specimens, the discovery of a completely blind eel with a transparent and gelatinous skin was very particular.
Dr. Tim O’Hara, lead scientist on the expedition, said: “We found really huge ancient seamounts, with canyons formed by sand avalanches and an incredible number of potentially new species who live in this remote marine park”.
Nelson Kuna, Hydrographic Surveyor for CSIRO, explained that very little high-resolution mapping of the area had been done prior to this trip, adding: “It’s truly an honor to see, for the first timethese extraordinary characteristics revealed from the depths”.
The important oceanographic research is the result of a collaboration between the Museums Victoria Research Institute and the CSIRO, in addition to the contribution of Bush Blitz (a species discovery program), del ParksAustraliaof theAustralian Museum Research Institute he was born in Western Australian Museum.
Dr. Jason Mundy, of Parks Australia (which protects Australia’s natural areas and Aboriginal heritage), said that the voyage was of considerable scientific value as it has allowed for a better understanding of the unique habitats and species found in those remote waters.
All that remains is to “admire” the particular creatures discovered, of which we have reported a couple of examples. If you are curious to deepen the research, we refer you to CSIRO official site.
On the other hand, the seabed is full of life yet to be discovered, which perhaps will be revealed thanks to a project that aims to probe all the seabed before 2030.
Image credits: Museums Victoria
