Unprecedented scientific discoveries: A recent expedition off the coast of Chile has yielded a treasure trove of scientific wonders, including over 100 potentially new marine species and several previously unknown underwater mountains.
Exploring the deep: Researchers aboard the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s Falkor explored the seafloor between January and February, focusing on three key areas: the Nazca and Salas y Gómez ridges, and the Juan Fernández and Nazca-Desventuradas marine parks.
Mapping the unknown: The expedition mapped a staggering 20,400 square miles of ocean floor, revealing four previously undiscovered seamounts. The largest, dubbed “Solito,” towers an impressive 11,581 feet, making it four times taller than the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.
A menagerie of deep-sea wonders: Using an underwater robot, researchers encountered over 100 potentially new species, including intricate sponges, spiraling corals, a peculiar beady-eye lobster, unusual sea urchins, and a bright red “sea toad” with hand-like fins.
Species identification underway: Scientists are now analyzing the collected samples to confirm if they represent newly discovered species. This process can take years, especially with the sheer number of samples collected.
Protecting vulnerable habitats: Researchers highlighted the vulnerable nature of several species’ habitats, particularly cold-water coral and sponge gardens. While some areas are protected, others lack safeguards.
Building on past discoveries: This expedition follows the institute’s previous findings of massive seamounts off Chile and Peru, and a solitary peak off Guatemala. Each exceeding the Burj Khalifa’s height, these towering “biological hotspots” hold immense potential for furthering our understanding of life on Earth.
