Deep Sea Surprise: 'Supergiant' Amphipod Not Rare

The deep-sea Alicella gigantea, once thought to be a rare inhabitant of the abyss, is now understood to be widespread. Scientists have discovered this giant crustacean, which can grow up to 34 centimeters, populates nearly 59 percent of the global ocean floor. This comprehensive finding stems from recent genetic and expeditionary research that compiled extensive records and analyzed DNA sequences.

Previous assumptions of scarcity were based on infrequent sightings and limited samples. However, modern deep-sea sampling techniques and detailed genetic analyses conducted by researchers at the University of Western Australia have revealed extensive populations. These studies indicate that A. gigantea thrives in the abyssal and hadal zones of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans.

Remarkably, very low genetic differentiation was observed among populations worldwide. This suggests a single, highly dispersed species, a testament to its evolutionary stability and adaptation to extreme environments. As interest in deep-sea exploration grows, understanding the abundance and genetic dynamics of species like A. gigantea is crucial for biodiversity assessments and conservation efforts.