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New Carnivorous Sponge Discovered in Antarctic Expedition

12/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

During the Nippon Foundation–Nekton Ocean Census, scientists discovered a new carnivorous sponge, the death-ball sponge, near Antarctica.
The sponge belongs to the Chondrocladia genus and uses tiny hooks.
The expedition reached 3,601 meters and identified scale worms, crustaceans, sea stars, and filmed a juvenile colossal squid.
Michelle Taylor, Head of Science at the Ocean Census, said only 30% of samples have been analyzed.

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Story summary

During the Nippon Foundation–Nekton Ocean Census, scientists discovered a new carnivorous sponge, the death-ball sponge, near Antarctica.
The sponge belongs to the Chondrocladia genus and uses tiny hooks.
The expedition reached 3,601 meters and identified scale worms, crustaceans, sea stars, and filmed a juvenile colossal squid.
Michelle Taylor, Head of Science at the Ocean Census, said only 30% of samples have been analyzed.