4 sources·Science

California Researchers Discover New Bioluminescent Sea Slug in Deep Ocean

Scientists have identified a new species of sea slug, Bathydevius caudactylus, in the Pacific's midnight zone after two decades of research.

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Updated: Nov 13th, 2024, 6:57 PM ET

Summary

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After 20 years of research, California's Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute has identified Bathydevius caudactylus, a new bioluminescent sea slug, in the ocean's midnight zone. This unique nudibranch, dubbed the 'mystery mollusc', thrives at depths of 3,300 to 13,100 feet, utilizing its gelatinous body and bioluminescence for survival. Researchers aim to understand its ecological role and advantages in its deep-sea habitat. The discovery highlights the importance of advanced technology in exploring and cataloguing the ocean's unexplored regions, underscoring our increasing knowledge of deep-sea biodiversity.

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