According to a study published in the journal PNAS on June 16, scientists have identified three new Sericosura sea spider species off the US West Coast that live at deep‑sea methane seeps in total darkness. These tiny rice‑sized spiders lack hunting appendages and instead form symbiotic relationships with methane‑oxidizing bacteria on their exoskeletons. The bacteria convert methane into nutrients that the spiders graze on, helping trap greenhouse gas and revealing novel deep‑sea biodiversity.
The deep sea, Earth's largest and least explored ecosystem, has intrigued scientists for generations with its unique biodiversity. Since the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) was founded in 1921, marine research has uncovered a vibrant, dynamic world beneath the surface.Over the past century, key discoveries and groundbreaking technologies have transformed our understanding of life in the ocean's depths. Yet, despite covering 71% of the Earth, the oceans remain largely unexplored, with less than 5% of their depths studied. This uncharted vastness has inspired remarkable innovations, including boats, submarines, sonar technology, and scuba gear.
Driven by the quest to uncover the mysteries below, humanity continues its journey into this enigmatic frontier. Click on and join the expedition!