Marine Expedition Finds 31 New Species in 2 Weeks Off Brazil
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 26
Marine Expedition Finds 31 New Species in 2 Weeks Off Brazil
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 26
Summary
31 newly identified species were found in two weeks in international waters off Brazil, after researchers surveyed a previously unexplored stretch of the ocean midwater.
Two dozen experts from the US, Australia, Brazil and Japan credited the rapid pace to onboard tools including the laser-based “Squid” microscope, prototype imaging systems and genetic analysis.
The haul included nine jellyfish, seven siphonophores, seven comb jellies, four larvaceans, two giant rhizarians, an amphipod and a gossamer worm.
Researchers said the midwater makes up 90% of Earth’s living space yet remains one of its least explored habitats, with species movements there shaping ocean carbon drawdown.
The findings came as the Trump administration unveiled plans to dismantle the $368 million Ocean Observatories Initiative, underscoring scientists’ calls for more ocean research collaboration.