Nature & Environment

Weird new species found on seamounts off Easter Island

By T.K. Randall
April 15, 2024

Image: Ahu Tongariki - Rapa Nui (Easter Island)
Credit: Bradenfox / CC BY 3.0 (adapted) During a 40-day research expedition, an international team of scientists scoured the Salas y Gomez Ridge near Rapa Nui (also known as Easter Island) using remote-operated underwater vehicles.

In total, they covered a whopping 30,115 square miles along 1,800 miles of seamounts.

The species they uncovered were remarkable to say the least and included everything from glow-in-the-dark dragonfish to a strange multi-tentacled creature dubbed the 'flying spaghetti monster'.Out of 160 species observed, around one-third were thought to be totally new to science.

"The astonishing habitats and animal communities that we have unveiled... constitute a dramatic example of how little we know about this remote area," said Dr Javier Sellanes of the Universidad Catolica del Norte.

"These expeditions will help alert decision-makers about the ecological importance of the areas and contribute to strengthening protection strategies within and beyond jurisdictional waters."

A video showing some of the team's most spectacular finds can be viewed below.


Source: Mail Online

Tags: Easter Island