What did researchers discover in the Weddell Sea?

Researchers discovered over 1,000 nests built by a species of rockcod fish called yellowfin notie in the Weddell Sea, arranged in intricate geometric patterns.

How did the fish nests protect their eggs?

The fish built their nests in distinct shapes, including clusters, crescents, and other patterns, as a strategy to protect their eggs from predators like ribbon worms.

What happened to the HMS Endurance shipwreck that the expedition was searching for?

The expedition was unable to locate the wreckage of the HMS Endurance, which became trapped and destroyed by ice in 1915, but they made the unexpected discovery of the fish nests instead.

Home / Science / Expedition Uncovers Intricate Geometric Fish Nests in Antarctica's Weddell Sea

Expedition Uncovers Intricate Geometric Fish Nests in Antarctica's Weddell Sea

30 Oct

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Summary

Researchers discovered striking geometric patterns on the seafloor of Antarctica's Weddell Sea
The patterns were created by a species of rockcod fish called yellowfin notie
The fish build nests in distinct shapes to protect their eggs from predators

Expedition Uncovers Intricate Geometric Fish Nests in Antarctica's Weddell Sea

In January 2019, researchers set out on an expedition to the Weddell Sea in Antarctica to search for the wreckage of the HMS Endurance, a ship that became trapped and destroyed by ice in 1915. While they were unable to locate the wreck, the expedition made an unexpected discovery: the seafloor of the Weddell Sea was covered in striking geometric patterns created by fish.

The expedition's remotely operated underwater vehicle, nicknamed Lassie, captured footage of over 1,000 nests built by a species of rockcod fish called yellowfin notie. These nests were arranged in distinct shapes, including clusters, crescents, straight lines, ovals, and U-shapes. The researchers believe these patterns represent a strategy by the fish to protect their eggs from predators like ribbon worms.