Latest news with #deepsea
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Deep-Sea Wonderland Found Thriving Where Humans Have Never Been
A deep-sea expedition to one of Earth's most remote island chains has surfaced stunning pictures of the vibrant ecosystems surrounding hydrothermal vents that scientists didn't even know were there. The 35-day journey aboard Schmidt Ocean Institute's Falkor (too) research vessel was part of the Ocean Census's race to document marine life before it is lost to threats like climate change and deep sea mining. This expedition took an international team of scientists to the South Sandwich Islands, in the South Atlantic near Antarctica, which boasts the Southern Ocean's deepest trench. Despite facing subsea earthquakes, hurricane-force winds, towering waves, and icebergs, the crew was rewarded with a trove of incredible new discoveries. You might have already watched the expedition's world-first footage of a live colossal squid, but some of their other finds deserve a moment in the spotlight. Like this vermillion coral garden thriving on Humpback Seamount, near the region's shallowest hydrothermal vents at around 700 meters deep (nearly 2,300 feet). The tallest vent chimney stood four meters (13 feet) tall, proudly sporting an array of life, including barnacles and sea snails. Like drones in a New Year's Eve sky, a fleet of shrimp whizzed round these submarine skyscrapers. These hydrothermal vents, on the northeast side of Quest Caldera, are the only South Sandwich Island vents explored via remotely operated vehicle (ROV) thus far; we can't wait to see what future expeditions uncover. "Discovering these hydrothermal vents was a magical moment, as they have never been seen here before," says hydrographer Jenny Gales from the University of Plymouth in the UK. But certain specimens deserve a close-up: like this exquisite nudibranch, unspecified, which blackwater photographer Jialing Cai snapped at 268 meters deep in the near-freezing waters east of Montagu Island. Nearby, a slightly more upsetting moment was captured: a grenadier fish with parasitic copepods – likely Lophoura szidati – tucked into its gills like horrid pigtails. And this stout little sea cucumber, recorded 650 metres below the sea surface at Saunders East, with a gob full of what we will informally dub a deep-sea puffball. Now, brace yourself for the first ever image of Akarotaxis aff. gouldae, a species of dragonfish that has evaded our cameras for two years since its discovery. Something else that nobody's seen before? Snailfish eggs on a black coral. Not even marine biologists knew this was a thing, until now. "This expedition has given us a glimpse into one of the most remote and biologically rich parts of our ocean," says marine biologist Michelle Taylor, the Ocean Census project's head of science. "This is exactly why the Ocean Census exists – to accelerate our understanding of ocean life before it's too late. The 35 days at sea were an exciting rollercoaster of scientific discovery, the implications of which will be felt for many years to come as discoveries filter into management action." Look behind-the-scenes aboard the Falkor (too) research vessel here. Cockatoos Figured Out How to Use Drinking Fountains, And It's Amazing Extreme Skittishness in Your Cat Could Be a Sign of a Mysterious Disease Rare Black Iceberg Goes Viral – So What Is Going on Here?
Sustainability Times
6 days ago
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'This Thing Shouldn't Exist': Scientists Stunned as Humanity Witnesses This Deep-Sea Monster Alive for the First Time Ever
IN A NUTSHELL 🌊 First-ever live footage of a deep-sea creature reveals the mysteries of the ocean's abyss. of a deep-sea creature reveals the mysteries of the ocean's abyss. 🔍 Scientists utilize advanced technology like ROVs and submersibles to explore the depths. like ROVs and submersibles to explore the depths. ✨ Deep-sea creatures exhibit remarkable adaptations such as bioluminescence and specialized feeding mechanisms. such as bioluminescence and specialized feeding mechanisms. ⚠️ Human activities threaten fragile ecosystems, highlighting the need for sustainable practices and conservation efforts. In the mysterious and largely uncharted realms of the deep ocean, humanity has recently achieved a groundbreaking milestone. For the first time ever, scientists have captured live footage of a creature that has long eluded human eyes—a denizen of the abyss whose very existence challenges our understanding of marine life. This remarkable event is not just an exploration triumph; it opens a new chapter in zoological studies, offering insights into the unique adaptations and survival mechanisms of deep-sea organisms. As we delve deeper into this fascinating discovery, we uncover the hidden wonders of the ocean and the delicate balance that sustains life in these extreme environments. The Enigmatic World of the Abyss The deep ocean, often referred to as the abyss, is a realm characterized by its extreme conditions—frigid temperatures, crushing pressures, and perpetual darkness. Despite these harsh conditions, life thrives in remarkable forms. The discovery of a new deep-sea creature offers a glimpse into this enigmatic world, showcasing the incredible diversity and resilience of ocean life. Scientists have long suspected that the abyss harbors species yet to be discovered, each uniquely adapted to the environment's challenges. This recent sighting confirms those suspicions and highlights the importance of continued exploration and conservation efforts. Deep-sea exploration is no easy feat. It requires advanced technology and meticulous planning to navigate the ocean's depths. The use of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and submersibles equipped with high-definition cameras has revolutionized our ability to study these elusive creatures. As researchers push the boundaries of human knowledge, they uncover not only new species but also invaluable data that can inform conservation strategies and enhance our understanding of marine ecosystems. 'This Species Was Gone for 120 Years': Stunning Rediscovery in South America Stuns Scientists and Ignites Conservation Hopes Understanding the Adaptations of Deep-Sea Creatures The creatures of the deep ocean have evolved unique adaptations to survive in an environment where few others can. These adaptations include bioluminescence, specialized feeding mechanisms, and physiological traits that enable them to withstand immense pressure. The recent live footage of a deep-sea squid offers a rare opportunity to observe these adaptations in action, providing insights into the evolutionary processes that have shaped life in the ocean's depths. Bioluminescence is one of the most fascinating adaptations observed in deep-sea organisms. It serves various purposes, from attracting prey to deterring predators. The ability to produce light in the dark ocean depths is a remarkable evolutionary trait that has captivated scientists and the public alike. Additionally, many deep-sea creatures possess unique body structures that enable them to capture scarce food resources efficiently. Understanding these adaptations is crucial for appreciating the complexity of marine life and the intricate web of interactions that sustain it. Radioactive Rodents Invade Nuclear Site: Swarm Forces Emergency Halt to Reactor Construction in the United Kingdom The Impact of Human Activities on Deep-Sea Ecosystems While the discovery of new deep-sea species is a cause for celebration, it also underscores the urgent need to protect these fragile ecosystems. Human activities, such as deep-sea mining and trawling, pose significant threats to the delicate balance of life in the abyss. These activities can have devastating effects on marine biodiversity, leading to the loss of unique species and the disruption of ecological processes. Conservation efforts are essential to safeguard the future of deep-sea ecosystems. By implementing sustainable practices and establishing marine protected areas, we can mitigate the impact of human activities and preserve the rich biodiversity of the ocean. Public awareness and international cooperation are crucial in promoting responsible stewardship of the world's oceans, ensuring that future generations can continue to explore and marvel at the wonders of the deep sea. 'A Real-Life Mini-Dragon Exists': Scientists Baffled by This Elusive Creature That's Nearly Impossible to Spot in the Wild The Future of Deep-Sea Exploration The recent discovery marks a significant milestone in the field of marine science, but it is only the beginning. Advances in technology and collaboration among scientific communities worldwide promise to unlock more secrets of the deep ocean. As we continue to explore this final frontier, we are likely to encounter new species and phenomena that challenge our understanding of life on Earth. The future of deep-sea exploration is bright, driven by a spirit of curiosity and a commitment to expanding human knowledge. Researchers are developing innovative tools and techniques to reach greater depths and study marine life in unprecedented detail. By fostering a deeper connection with the ocean, we can inspire future generations to value and protect this vital part of our planet. What other mysteries lie beneath the waves, waiting to be discovered? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (20)
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Science news this week: Overdue earthquakes and star-shaped brain cells
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. This week's science news saw us looking deep into the cosmos and the depths of our oceans. To understand the universe today, we need to look back at its earliest epoch, a period about 13 billion years ago known as the cosmic dawn. Until now, space-based telescopes have been our only way to peer back this far, but this week astronomers detected traces of light left by the first stars using a ground-based telescope — a feat scientists previously thought was impossible. From deep space to the deep ocean, researchers uncovered more secrets about the "world's richest shipwreck" off the Colombian coast, while other scientists captured a haunting blood-red squid on camera for the first time. Meanwhile, while researchers have spotted some remarkable things underwater, something that should normally live there recently turned up in a very unexpected place. From clearing cellular debris to regulating blood flow, star-shaped brain cells known as astrocytes are crucial to keeping your brain healthy, but a new study shows that they could also play a key role in how the brain stores memories. While neurons were once thought to be the brain's sole architects of thought and memory, scientists have used machine learning to understand how astrocytes behave when neurons interact with each other to form connections. They found that astrocytes help store memories through changes in calcium-based signals they send within and between cells, and in turn, these calcium signaling patterns get sent to neurons and tune their activity. Discover more health news —New menstrual pad device tracks period blood for signs of disease —There's a new blood test for Alzheimer's. Here's everything you need to know about it. —HIV/AIDS: Facts about the viral infection that attacks the immune system From hunting prey to finding mates and avoiding predators, the ability to detect odors is crucial for survival in the animal kingdom. But which species reigns supreme when it comes to smelling? —If you enjoyed this, sign up for our Life's Little Mysteries newsletter Earthquakes are notoriously difficult to predict, but a recent study suggests that California's faults are overdue for some quakes. By studying the interval between earthquakes on faults in five quake-prone regions with a long geological record, geoscientists worked out which ones were "overdue" for a quake. While faults in most of these regions were less than 20% overdue, that rocketed to about 45% in the case of the Golden State. Read more planet Earth news —Hidden layer beneath Italy's Campi Flegrei caldera may explain why it's so restless —Russian scientists discover a new island in the Caspian Sea — the world's largest inland body of water —Earth's oceans are a 'ticking time bomb' as acidity levels enter 'danger zone,' study suggests —'Lost Colony' of Roanoke may have assimilated into Indigenous society, archaeologist claims — but not everyone is convinced —IBM will build monster 10,000-qubit quantum computer by 2029 after 'solving science' behind fault tolerance — the biggest bottleneck to scaling up —Ancient DNA from Papua New Guinea reveals centuries of genetic isolation —Roman-era 'fast food' discovered in ancient trash heap on Mallorca —Alan Turing's seminal papers, almost destroyed by a shredder, head to auction Bariatric surgery is an extremely effective weight-loss treatment, but in addition to reducing people's body weights, the procedure is often tied to improvements in mental health. A new study suggests that these improvements may hinge not on the amount of weight lost, but rather on patients experiencing less weight stigma after the surgery. "Weight stigma" refers to negative attitudes, biases and beliefs people hold about those with overweight or obesity; some of those biases stem from the misconception that controlling one's weight is merely a matter of willpower. Among the patients included in the new study, most reported experiencing less stigmatization after bariatric surgery, along with better physical and mental health. A smaller subset of patients continued to experience stigma after their procedures and were then at higher risk of poor mental health and disordered eating. The study fills a "gap" in our understanding of factors that can affect patients' outcomes after these surgeries, which are growing more common. If you're looking for something a little longer to read over the weekend, here are some of the best long reads, book excerpts and interviews published this week. —The best time to see the Milky Way is fast approaching! How to see our galaxy at its best in June [Skywatching] —28 gorgeous nebula photos that capture the beauty of the universe [Picture gallery] —Summer solstice 2025: When is the solstice, why does it happen, and how do cultures celebrate? [Explainer] —Last minute Father's Day deals on telescopes, binoculars and cameras [Deals] This week we were treated to a part of the sun that no one has ever set eyes on before — the solar south pole. Dipping to an angle 17 degrees below the solar equator, the European Space Agency's (ESA) Solar Orbiter captured images of the star's south pole using a large band of visible and ultraviolet wavelengths, bringing to life the tangled web of the sun's magnetic field and chemical elements as they travel on enormous plumes of plasma. These new images will enable scientists to better understand solar wind, space weather and the cycle of the sun's shifting magnetic field. "Today we reveal humankind's first-ever views of the Sun's pole," Carole Mundell, ESA's director of science, said in a statement. "These new unique views from our Solar Orbiter mission are the beginning of a new era of solar science." Want more science news? Follow our Live Science WhatsApp Channel for the latest discoveries as they happen. It's the best way to get our expert reporting on the go, but if you don't use WhatsApp we're also on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Flipboard, Instagram, TikTok, Bluesky and LinkedIn.
The Independent
11-06-2025
- Science
- The Independent
Rare squid captured on camera for first time ever
A rare deep-sea squid, Gonatus antarcticus, was filmed for the first time in its natural habitat. Researchers on an expedition in the Southern Ocean captured the footage on Christmas Day 2024 at a depth of 2,152 metres. It was shared by National Geographic on 10 June. The expedition was rerouted due to poor weather conditions and dangerous sea ice, leading to the sighting, according to scientist Manuel Novillo. Previously, the species was only known from remains found in fishing nets and marine animal stomachs. Watch the full video above.
CBS News
11-06-2025
- Science
- CBS News
Elusive Antarctic squid spotted alive in the wild for the first time, captured on video
Unprecedented footage of an elusive deep-sea creature came to light this week. On an expedition through the Southern Ocean last Christmas Day, researchers discovered the Gonatus antarcticus, a mysterious species of squid known to roam the freezing waters around Antarctica but never seen alive before in its natural habitat. The crew of Schmidt Ocean Institute's research vessel, the R/V Falkor (too), encountered the squid by happenstance, according to National Geographic, which led the expedition through its nonprofit, the National Geographic Society, and on Tuesday published photos and video of the historic find. The research vessel's remotely operated vehicle, called SuBastian, captured the footage that's also set to appear in an upcoming National Geographic documentary. Presented by National Geographic Society in partnership with Rolex. A National Geographic Society expedition spotted an Antarctic gonate squid alive for the first time—helping researchers form theories around this mysterious species. — National Geographic (@NatGeo) June 10, 2025 In the first look released this week, a three-foot-long multicolored squid shimmers in pitch-dark, appearing to glow as it floats. Crew members recalled to National Geographic a cloud of green ink ejected from the animal as the machine approached, suggesting it was startled. The creature was spotted about 7,000 feet below the surface of the Weddell Sea, a remote area near the Antarctic peninsula. Researchers have yet to confirm the squid's sex or age based on the footage. Before this encounter, evidence of the Antarctic gonate squid had come exclusively in the form of carcasses caught in fishing nets or in the stomachs of its predators, National Geographic said. This particular squid was determined to be "in good shape" outside of some scratches and sucker marks. Researchers discovered the Gonatus antarcticus, a mysterious species of squid. National Geographic The Antarctic gonate is among a group of large and elusive deep-sea squid species native to the Southern Ocean, which have for the most part evaded human contact. Another, the colossal squid, was filmed alive for the first time ever in March, during a different research expedition by the Schmidt Ocean Institute around the South Sandwich Islands.
