Over 800 New Marine Species Discovered in Global Expedition

An international project to map ocean biodiversity has revealed fascinating creatures found at depths ranging from one to nearly five thousand meters. Among the discoveries are a guitar-shaped shark, a fan-like coral, and a venomous snail equipped with sharp teeth to capture prey.

These findings are part of the Ocean Census, a global initiative launched in 2023 with the ambitious goal of cataloging 100,000 new marine species. The project, which brings together scientists from around the world, has already recorded 866 new species across 10 expeditions using divers, manned submersibles, and remotely operated robotic vehicles.

One of the most impressive discoveries is a guitarfish shark found in the waters of Mozambique and Tanzania. This rare animal combines features of sharks and rays, belonging to the Rhinobatos genus, which includes only 38 known species. According to researchers, most species in this group face the risk of extinction, making this discovery even more significant for marine conservation.

Another species that caught scientists’ attention was a predatory snail identified in the deep waters of New Caledonia and Vanuatu. Named Turridrupa magnifica, this gastropod uses harpoon-like teeth to inject toxins into its prey, showcasing the impressive survival strategies developed by marine life in different oceanic environments.

The research, conducted by a network of over 800 scientists from 400 institutions worldwide, highlights the importance of exploring and preserving marine ecosystems. “Each new species discovered reminds us of how much we still have to learn about ocean life and the urgency of protecting it,” emphasized David Ebert, an expert at Ocean Census.

These discoveries represent a significant step in understanding marine biodiversity and reinforce the need for conservation measures. With a vast underwater world still unexplored, scientists remain committed to uncovering the secrets of the oceans before many of these species disappear without ever being known.

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