Researchers in Monterey, California have identified a new species of sea slug, more than 20 years after first encountering it in the deep sea. The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute shared video footage of the unique sea slug gracefully swimming in the ocean depths.
Initially dubbed a “mystery mollusc” when it was first observed by scientists using a remote vehicle in February 2000 at a depth of 8,576 feet in the Pacific, the creature baffled researchers with its unusual features. With a hooded structure at one end, a tail adorned with finger-like projections, and vibrant internal organs, the sea slug did not fit into any known group.
After extensive analysis of over 150 sightings and laboratory studies, researchers concluded that the sea slug is a new type of nudibranch. This fascinating creature resides in the midnight zone of the deep ocean, characterized by extremely low temperatures, darkness, and immense pressure.
The discovery of this new sea slug species has been documented in the journal Deep-Sea Research Part I.
