Researchers exploring the Pacific Ocean’s deep Clarion-Clipperton Zone made a remarkable discovery – the pink sea pig. This finding unveiled a multitude of previously unseen species, illuminating the vast biodiversity hidden in the ocean’s depths. Situated between Mexico and Hawaii, this region in the abyssopelagic zone is a dark, mysterious world that has now been brought to light.
The University of Gothenburg revealed that a 45-day research expedition to the Clarion Clipperton Zone concluded in March. Marine ecologist Thomas Dahlgren from the University of Gothenburg and NORCE research institute was part of the team aboard the British research vessel James Cook. Dahlgren describes these deep-sea areas as the Earth’s least explored, with only a fraction of the animal species living there known to science.
The area studied is a part of the Abyssal Plains, characterized by depths ranging from 3,500 to 5,500 meters. Despite covering more than half the Earth’s surface, little is known about the fascinating animal life in these regions. Dahlgren finds it exhilarating to be part of discovering new species and ecosystems in a manner reminiscent of the explorations of the 18th century.
Due to the scarcity of food, creatures living in the Abyssal Plains are spread far apart. However, the diversity of species present in the area is surprisingly high, with many showcasing specialized adaptations. These discoveries, such as the large sea cucumbers acting as ocean floor vacuum cleaners, highlight the unique and intriguing life forms thriving in these deep-sea environments.