Story perspectives

30 New Deep-Sea Species Discovered in Southern Ocean

10/30/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Nippon Foundation-Nekton Ocean Census identified 30 new deep-sea species in the Southern Ocean, including a carnivorous sponge called the death ball (Chondrocladia sp. nov.).
Researchers collected nearly 2,000 specimens and hours of video from remote areas such as the South Sandwich Trench.
Dr. Michelle Taylor notes that only 30% of samples have been assessed, indicating under-sampling and a need for further exploration to support conservation.

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Story summary

The Nippon Foundation-Nekton Ocean Census identified 30 new deep-sea species in the Southern Ocean, including a carnivorous sponge called the death ball (Chondrocladia sp. nov.).
Researchers collected nearly 2,000 specimens and hours of video from remote areas such as the South Sandwich Trench.
Dr. Michelle Taylor notes that only 30% of samples have been assessed, indicating under-sampling and a need for further exploration to support conservation.