The discoveries we have made in the deep sea are even more shocking than you might realize…
Megamouth Shark
The Megamouth Shark is one of the sea’s most enigmatic creatures. Accidentally discovered in 1976, it remains one of the least understood marine animals due to its deep-sea dwelling habits. Its name is derived from its large, gaping mouth and rubbery lips, making it a sight to behold!
Atlantic Wolffish
Next on our list is the Atlantic Wolffish, a creature that has made the freezing waters of the North Atlantic its home. What’s fascinating is that this species produces a natural antifreeze to keep its blood flowing despite the icy conditions. Now, there’s a life hack!
Ocean Sunfish
The Ocean Sunfish, or Mola Mola, is the world’s heaviest bony fish. Weighing an average of 1,000 kg (2,200 lb), this fish is an impressive sight. But don’t let its size fool you – it mainly feeds on jellyfish, proving that size doesn’t always correlate with ferocity in the ocean.
Pacific Hagfish
The Pacific Hagfish has a rather unique defense mechanism – it secretes slime. When threatened, it can release up to 20 liters of slime, clogging the gills of its predators. Talk about a slippery escape!
Pigbutt Worm
One of the more oddly named creatures, the Pigbutt Worm or “flying buttocks,” was discovered in 2007. This small, spherical creature, only about the size of a hazelnut, is a testament to the wild variety of life lurking deep beneath the waves.
Pacific Blackdragon
The Pacific Blackdragon is a stealthy predator. Females, which can grow up to 61 cm (24 in) long, are dark in color, helping them blend into the deep-sea environment and sneak up on their prey. Males, however, do not eat or even have functioning guts. Their sole purpose is to mate. Not a bad life, eh?
Goblin Shark
The Goblin Shark, otherwise known as a “living fossil,” is known for its elongated, flat snout and protruding jaws, which can extend to catch prey. It’s a glimpse into the ancient past, as this shark’s lineage dates back 125 million years!
Yeti Crab
Discovered in 2005, the Yeti Crab is a species that thrives near hydrothermal vents. Its hairy pincers contain bacteria, which it cultivates for food. It’s a remarkable example of how life can adapt to the harshest of conditions.
Colossal Squid
The Colossal Squid is the largest known invertebrate on Earth. With eyes measuring 27 cm (11 in) in diameter and tentacles equipped with sharp hooks, it’s the stuff of maritime legends.
Vampire Squid
Despite its menacing name, the Vampire Squid feeds on the “marine snow” – organic material that falls from the upper layers of the ocean. Its glowing tentacle tips are thought to lure prey, adding a touch of light to the deep sea’s darkness.
Dumbo Octopus
Named after Disney’s flying elephant for its ear-like fins, the Dumbo Octopus is the deepest living of all known octopuses. These cute creatures can be found as deep as 7,000 meters (22,965 feet) below the surface.
Mariana Snailfish
Last but not least, the Mariana Snailfish holds the record for the deepest living fish ever discovered, found at depths of 8,178 meters (26,872 feet) in the Mariana Trench. It’s a reminder that life can survive even in the most extreme, high-pressure environments.
