New Marine Species Found
The ANDEEP project (Antarctic benthic deep-sea biodiversity) completed three sampling expeditions to the Weddell Sea area with the RV Polarstern during the period between 2002 and 2005. As a result of the project, researchers gained valuable insight into the scope of biodiversity within the Southern Ocean. The research team gathered data using traditional sampling methods (water and sediment samples were taken from 2,500 to 20,000 feet deep in the Weddell Sea and surrounding area) in conjunction with video imaging and the latest molecular techniques from these expeditions and has published a letter this week in the journal Nature.
According to reports, new creatures were discovered, including a carnivorous sponge (Chondrocladia), free swimming worms, and 674 species of isopod (an order of crustaceans that includes woodlice). Of the 674 species of isopod, 585 species had never been observed before.
Expedition leader, Angelika Brandt, of the Zoological Institute and Zoological Museum at Germany's University of Hamburg was quoted in a Reuters article as saying, "We now have a better understanding in the evolution of the marine species and how they can adapt to changes in climate and environments."
Polarstern
Ctenocidaris
Cylindrarcturus
glass sponge
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