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Deep Canyons Reveal New Species Off WA Coast
5 May
Summary
- Researchers discovered unknown species in deep underwater canyons.
- Environmental DNA revealed creatures without capture or sighting.
- Giant squid traces were detected across multiple deep-sea samples.
Western Australia's famed Ningaloo Coast is proving to be a frontier for marine discovery, with scientists uncovering a wealth of new species within its deep underwater canyons. Researchers recently surveyed the Cape Range and Cloates submarine canyons, located approximately 1200 kilometers north of Perth.
Using advanced environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques, the expedition, led by the WA Museum, successfully identified species inhabiting depths down to over 4500 meters. This method allowed for the documentation of marine life without the need to physically see or capture specimens, providing unprecedented insights into the deep-sea ecosystem.
Among the most significant findings were traces of the giant squid, identified in six separate eDNA samples. The research also confirmed the presence of deep-diving whales, including the Pygmy sperm whale and Cuvier's beaked whale, highlighting the rich biodiversity hidden in these remote oceanic trenches.
