Researchers in Antarctica have made an exciting discovery – a new species with a strawberry-like shape and an incredible 20 arms. The findings were recently published in the journal Invertebrate Systematics, shedding light on this unique creature that has been named Promachocrinus fragarius.
The researchers described Promachocrinus fragarius as a type of Antarctic feather star. These fascinating creatures can have either 20 or 10 arms and come in a range of colors, from “purplish” to “dark reddish.” Although the report did not provide specific measurements for its size, it referred to the animal as “large.”
According to the report, Antarctic feather stars, including Promachocrinus fragarius, live at ocean depths that span from 65 to an impressive 6500 feet. This vast range indicates the adaptability and resilience of these species in extreme conditions.
The discovery of Promachocrinus fragarius was made possible through the efforts of three scientists from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and the University of California, San Diego. These scientists embarked on a series of expeditions between 2008 and 2017, in the pursuit of uncovering what they refer to as “cryptic biodiversity.” Their exploration efforts in the Southern Ocean have led to this remarkable find.
“The Southern Ocean has unique environmental conditions that may drive biodiversity,” noted the report, which was authored by Emily L. McLaughlin, Nerida G. Wilson, and Greg W. Rouse. The researchers believe that the singular ecosystem of the Southern Ocean plays an integral role in the development and survival of various species.
Aside from Promachocrinus fragarius, the report also identified three other new species in the region, according to Greg Rouse. These findings highlight the significant yet relatively unexplored biodiversity present in the Southern Ocean.
The discovery of Promachocrinus fragarius adds to the growing body of knowledge regarding the unique and diverse wildlife inhabiting Antarctica. As researchers delve deeper into the mysteries of this icy continent, it is becoming increasingly clear that there is much more to be unraveled beneath its frigid surface. With ongoing expeditions and scientific studies, we can expect more exciting discoveries to come, shedding light on the wonders that lie hidden in this remote and untouched corner of the world.