Sep 24, 2024 - World
Smile to go: Unearthing new species
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Video captured by oceanographers in the Falkor scientific expeditions. Source: via Noticias Telemundo
At least 20 likely new marine species have been discovered this year by a Uruguayan-led team exploring the Nazca Ridge.
State of play: The Falkor scientific expedition, part of the Schmidt Ocean Institute, has been exploring the area near Chile and Peru, focusing on newly found undersea mountains.
- Their dives this year, including one led by oceanographer Javier Sellanes, led to finding deep-sea coral reefs the size of three tennis courts that the scientists say could be thousands of years old.
- Among the new species being investigated is a type of squid that hasn't been spotted elsewhere.
What they're saying: "The astonishing habitats and animal communities that we have unveiled … constitute a dramatic example of how little we know about this remote area," Sellanes said in a statement.
- The findings can be used to help push for new marine protected areas near Easter Island, the scientist says, as global discussions to establish a high-seas treaty continue.
