Scientists have identified a new species of sea spider, named Austropallene halanychi, with distinctive features such as large bulbous claws resembling “boxing gloves.” The sea spider was discovered off the coast of Antarctica in the Ross Sea, approximately 1,870 feet (570 meters) below the surface. This newly identified species has a unique yellow body color, four near-black eyes, and an unusual method of feeding and respiration.
Austropallene halanychi is a distant relative to both horseshoe crabs and arachnids. Its body is about 0.4 inches (1 centimeter) long, with legs stretching nearly 1.2 inches (3 cm), giving it the characteristic spindly appearance of many sea spiders. The species uses its large claws, described as “boxing gloves,” to grasp soft foods like anemones and worms.
One peculiar aspect of the sea spider’s behavior is its feeding mechanism, where it doesn’t use its mouth but a straw-like proboscis. Additionally, it breathes through its legs, adding to the unique features of this species.
The discovery of Austropallene halanychi highlights the rich biodiversity in the Southern Ocean and Antarctica. Scientists emphasize the need for continued exploration of the benthic environment in Antarctica to unveil more undiscovered species and understand the complex ecosystems thriving in the region.
The sea spider was initially collected in 2013 by the Nathaniel B. Palmer, a US research vessel. Researchers recently reexamined and identified it as a new species through a combination of morphological analysis and genetic study, underscoring the ongoing importance of exploring the Southern Ocean’s depths to reveal new and intriguing marine life.
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