<p>Millions of eels are gathering in the deep, dark waters off southeast Australia near a mountain south of Tasmania. Patience Seamount has hosted millions of eels for decades, at one time at a particular time every year. Scientists believe basketwork eels, or Diastobranchus capensis, do so for reproduction. For the first time, a study has established exactly how many eels congregate in this region.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to a study led by marine scientist Ben Scoulding of Australia's CSIRO, a total of 2.8 million eels gather at the site at the peak of the congregation. The slithery marine creatures weigh nearly 3,860 tons in total.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The researchers also analysed why the eels choose Patience Seamount, where there are around 120 seamounts in the Huon and Tasman Fracture marine parks south of Tasmania. "Although seamounts are well known as hotspots where fish can aggregate, it's unusual to find millions of fish concentrated around a single feature," Scoulding said.</p><h2><strong>The discovery of eel swarm</strong></h2><p>The eel congregation was spotted by commercial fisheries in the 1980s and 90s. In 2007, a deep-sea camera survey captured the gathering for the first time. It was caught on camera attached to a research vessel during an expedition to survey the seabed and marine life. They came across something completely unexpected.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/super-el-nino-drives-16-ft-whale-shark-towards-california-1789373993182"><strong>16-foot sea creature seen near California: Super El Nino drives rare animals towards SoCal</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The dark waters were filled with eels. While the creatures reside in this seamount all throughout the year, from March to May their numbers see a sharp spike. Both male and female eels have been found in advanced spawning condition during this time, suggesting this is reproductive season.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Scoulding says "the scale, persistence, and likely reproductive nature of the aggregation" makes it "one of the most remarkable fish aggregations documented in the deep ocean."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>To find out how many eels were present during an April 2015 gathering, scientists used hydroacoustic measurements and on-camera eel counts. A 2021 report stated that there were tens of thousands of them there that year. Scoulding's team used sonar to map the massive concentrations of fish between 2023 and 2025.</p><h2><strong>The eel swarm was several kilometres long</strong></h2><p>But the sonar signal was possibly also coming from other animals. So the team also used an underwater camera to understand how much each species was contributing to it. They found that the eel swarm spanned roughly 3 kilometres long, 2 kilometres wide, and 150 metres above the seafloor.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Scoulding called the sheer size "remarkable". He further said that "estimating that there could be up to 2.8 million eels and more than 3,500 tons of biomass concentrated around a single seamount really highlights just how extraordinary Patience Seamount is."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Scientists say the findings show it is important to safeguard these habitats to ensure the species grow and thrive. Patience Seamount was once subjected to bottom trawling but is now showing signs of recovery.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

A huge swarm of eels has been spotted near an underwater mountain in Australia. The animals come here every year, but only now have scientists determined how many of them gather at a time. The number runs into millions, suggesting they come for reproduction.

Millions of eels are gathering in the deep, dark waters off southeast Australia near a mountain south of Tasmania. Patience Seamount has hosted millions of eels for decades, at one time at a particular time every year. Scientists believe basketwork eels, or Diastobranchus capensis, do so for reproduction. For the first time, a study has established exactly how many eels congregate in this region. According to a study led by marine scientist Ben Scoulding of Australia's CSIRO, a total of 2.8 million eels gather at the site at the peak of the congregation. The slithery marine creatures weigh nearly 3,860 tons in total. The researchers also analysed why the eels choose Patience Seamount, where there are around 120 seamounts in the Huon and Tasman Fracture marine parks south of Tasmania. "Although seamounts are well known as hotspots where fish can aggregate, it's unusual to find millions of fish concentrated around a single feature," Scoulding said. The discovery of eel swarm The eel congregation was spotted by commercial fisheries in the 1980s and 90s. In 2007, a deep-sea camera survey captured the gathering for the first time. It was caught on camera attached to a research vessel during an expedition to survey the seabed and marine life. They came across something completely unexpected. Also Read: 16-foot sea creature seen near California: Super El Nino drives rare animals towards SoCal The dark waters were filled with eels. While the creatures reside in this seamount all throughout the year, from March to May their numbers see a sharp spike. Both male and female eels have been found in advanced spawning condition during this time, suggesting this is reproductive season. Scoulding says "the scale, persistence, and likely reproductive nature of the aggregation" makes it "one of the most remarkable fish aggregations documented in the deep ocean." To find out how many eels were present during an April 2015 gathering, scientists used hydroacoustic measurements and on-camera eel counts. A 2021 report stated that there were tens of thousands of them there that year. Scoulding's team used sonar to map the massive concentrations of fish between 2023 and 2025. The eel swarm was several kilometres long But the sonar signal was possibly also coming from other animals. So the team also used an underwater camera to understand how much each species was contributing to it. They found that the eel swarm spanned roughly 3 kilometres long, 2 kilometres wide, and 150 metres above the seafloor. Scoulding called the sheer size "remarkable". He further said that "estimating that there could be up to 2.8 million eels and more than 3,500 tons of biomass concentrated around a single seamount really highlights just how extraordinary Patience Seamount is." Scientists say the findings show it is important to safeguard these habitats to ensure the species grow and thrive. Patience Seamount was once subjected to bottom trawling but is now showing signs of recovery.

<p>A huge swarm of eels has been spotted near an underwater mountain in Australia. The animals come here every year, but only now have scientists determined how many of them gather at a time. The number runs into millions, suggesting they come for reproduction.</p>

2.8 million eels gather near an Australian mountain every year. Here's why

<p>Palaeontologists have found 14 shark teeth in an Egyptian desert that was once covered by a warm tropical sea. The teeth come from five shark species that lived 70 million years ago. Remains of two other shark species were previously found at the same sites, showing that the region once had an aquatic ecosystem. The study was published in Cretaceous Research.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The fossils were found in the Abu-Tartur Plateau, in Egypt’s Western Desert and date back to the Campanian stage of the Late Cretaceous, roughly 84 to 72 million years ago. The Duwi Formation here has preserved traces of the sea inside phosphate-rich rocks that were also found to be hiding these shark teeth.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During the Late Cretaceous, global sea levels were higher, and Earth was warmer. Continents were covered with shallow seas, including deserts. Water reached deep inside the Sahara, with sharks and other marine creatures swimming here 84 million years ago. Today, the Sahara is the largest desert in the world.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The teeth were found by a team of palaeontologists led by Tarek Yassin from Cairo University. They identified that the 14 teeth came from at least five species, all from the genus Lamniformes. Today, great whites, makos and goblin sharks belong to this category of sharks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The teeth are of different shapes. There are some that are narrow and pointed, which the sharks likely used to hold slippery prey. The broader teeth were suited for slicing.</p><h2><strong>Shark teeth help reconstruct ancient environments</strong></h2><p>Analysing shark teeth is also how scientists learn about ancient marine environments. Like most creatures, different sharks came from different regions. By learning which sharks lived in which parts of the continents, they can estimate what that region would have looked like millions of years ago.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In this case, the Scapanorhynchus species that was found in the desert is believed to have lived in deeper water. Cretalamna and Serratolamna are associated with more open-shelf settings, while Squalicorax possibly came from shallower water.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Discovering such diverse species in one region shows that the marine environment here was quite diverse. In the past, scientists have found fish, sea turtles and other marine reptiles in the Duwi Formation. This means that a sea capable of supporting diverse life forms was present here during the Late Cretaceous.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Even though &nbsp;Abu-Tartur is dubbed "shark graveyard", it doesn't mean that all these sharks died here at the same time. Remains of marine animals from different times and environments gradually gathered here on the phosphate beds. It is possible that all these animals lived hundreds or thousands of years apart.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Shark teeth from at least five species have been found in Egypt's western desert of the Sahara. Fourteen of them were discovered and shed light on the marine environment of the region during the Late Creataceous, 70 million years ago. 

Palaeontologists have found 14 shark teeth in an Egyptian desert that was once covered by a warm tropical sea. The teeth come from five shark species that lived 70 million years ago. Remains of two other shark species were previously found at the same sites, showing that the region once had an aquatic ecosystem. The study was published in Cretaceous Research. The fossils were found in the Abu-Tartur Plateau, in Egypt’s Western Desert and date back to the Campanian stage of the Late Cretaceous, roughly 84 to 72 million years ago. The Duwi Formation here has preserved traces of the sea inside phosphate-rich rocks that were also found to be hiding these shark teeth. During the Late Cretaceous, global sea levels were higher, and Earth was warmer. Continents were covered with shallow seas, including deserts. Water reached deep inside the Sahara, with sharks and other marine creatures swimming here 84 million years ago. Today, the Sahara is the largest desert in the world. The teeth were found by a team of palaeontologists led by Tarek Yassin from Cairo University. They identified that the 14 teeth came from at least five species, all from the genus Lamniformes. Today, great whites, makos and goblin sharks belong to this category of sharks. The teeth are of different shapes. There are some that are narrow and pointed, which the sharks likely used to hold slippery prey. The broader teeth were suited for slicing. Shark teeth help reconstruct ancient environments Analysing shark teeth is also how scientists learn about ancient marine environments. Like most creatures, different sharks came from different regions. By learning which sharks lived in which parts of the continents, they can estimate what that region would have looked like millions of years ago. In this case, the Scapanorhynchus species that was found in the desert is believed to have lived in deeper water. Cretalamna and Serratolamna are associated with more open-shelf settings, while Squalicorax possibly came from shallower water. Discovering such diverse species in one region shows that the marine environment here was quite diverse. In the past, scientists have found fish, sea turtles and other marine reptiles in the Duwi Formation. This means that a sea capable of supporting diverse life forms was present here during the Late Cretaceous. Even though Abu-Tartur is dubbed "shark graveyard", it doesn't mean that all these sharks died here at the same time. Remains of marine animals from different times and environments gradually gathered here on the phosphate beds. It is possible that all these animals lived hundreds or thousands of years apart.

<p>Shark teeth from at least five species have been found in Egypt's western desert of the Sahara. Fourteen of them were discovered and shed light on the marine environment of the region during the Late Creataceous, 70 million years ago.&nbsp;</p>

Palaeontologists find 14 shark teeth in Sahara desert from Late Cretaceous

<p>A couple out for a fishing competition in Nantucket, an island town in Massachusetts, came across a gory scene unfolding in the ocean when a great white shark killed a seal as a second one escaped to the shore. Carrie Drayton and her boyfriend, Tyler O’Brien, captured the scene while driving at Great Point Beach around 10:30 am on Sunday. While returning from a fishing competition, they noticed a seal suddenly rush out of the water.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Soon, they saw the water turning red with shark fins visible over the surface. The shark was circling a second seal in the sea it had preyed upon and was feeding on it. The scene was unfolding only a few feet from the shore, as its companion watched from the beach. Drayton told Boston.com on Monday, "It was absolutely insane," adding that the shark was between 12 and 14 feet long.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Drayton added that it was "truly wild" how close the shark was while preying on the seal, “I could have reached out and touched it.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just some Nat Geo type footage on a casual Sunday at Great Point…<br><br>Carrie Drayton and Tyler O’Brien were driving out to the point on Sunday when they spotted this shark predation on a seal right along the shoreline. <br><br>Who can ID the species? 🦈<br><br>🎥: Tyler O’Brien <a href="https://t.co/IWePoG9qha">pic.twitter.com/IWePoG9qha</a></p>&mdash; Nantucket Current (@ACKCurrent) <a href="https://x.com/ACKCurrent/status/2101715179566166280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>The outlet spoke to Gregory Skomal, a senior fisheries scientist with the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, who confirmed that what the couple witnessed was a Great White shark feeding on a seal. He added that white sharks travel through Nantucket waters while migrating north and then south in autumn. The seals in the Great Point region are a food source for the sharks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Drayton said she never expected to see a shark in action from such a close distance. She admits they would have never come across the killing scene had they not participated in the fishing competition.&nbsp;</p>

A couple caught a Great White shark killing and feeding on a seal at Great Point Beach in Nantucket, extremely close to the shore. Another seal sat on the beach and watched as its partner was devoured by the shark.

A couple out for a fishing competition in Nantucket, an island town in Massachusetts, came across a gory scene unfolding in the ocean when a great white shark killed a seal as a second one escaped to the shore. Carrie Drayton and her boyfriend, Tyler O’Brien, captured the scene while driving at Great Point Beach around 10:30 am on Sunday. While returning from a fishing competition, they noticed a seal suddenly rush out of the water. Soon, they saw the water turning red with shark fins visible over the surface. The shark was circling a second seal in the sea it had preyed upon and was feeding on it. The scene was unfolding only a few feet from the shore, as its companion watched from the beach. Drayton told Boston.com on Monday, "It was absolutely insane," adding that the shark was between 12 and 14 feet long. Drayton added that it was "truly wild" how close the shark was while preying on the seal, “I could have reached out and touched it.”

<p>A couple caught a Great White shark killing and feeding on a seal at Great Point Beach in Nantucket, extremely close to the shore. Another seal sat on the beach and watched as its partner was devoured by the shark.</p>

Video - Couple shocked to see Great White shark killing seal few feet from Nantucket shore

<p>A 2021 underwater footage captured by NOAA Ocean Exploration is going viral for the two creatures shown in it. Strangely, scientists came across a yellow sponge like marine animal and a pink sea star, bearing striking resemblance to famous cartoon characters Sponge Bob SquarePants and his friend Patrick. The bright yellow glass sponge belongs to the genus Hertwigia, while the pink sea star is from the genus Chondraster.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The discovery was made five years ago on the underwater mountain Retriever Seamount in the Atlantic Ocean at a depth of 6,200 feet. The creatures were spotted during a live scanning of the region using a remotely operated underwater vehicle. Marine biologist Christopher Mah was on the other end, studying the seafloor when he stumbled upon the yellow and pink sea animals strangely right next to each other.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I normally avoid these refs... but WOW. REAL LIFE SpongeBob and Patrick!" Mah, affiliated with the NOAA, wrote next to the video in his X post at the time.<br>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Scientists may have found the real life SpongeBob and Patrick nearly 6,200 feet below the Atlantic. <br><br>A NOAA expedition captured a yellow sponge and a pink sea star sitting side by side, and marine biologist Christopher Mah pointed out the obvious comparison. <a href="https://t.co/zYk6JwIRCi">pic.twitter.com/zYk6JwIRCi</a></p>&mdash; Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) <a href="https://x.com/Rainmaker1973/status/2099158845352235089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>A different reality - Patrick would have eaten SpongeBob</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While you might think they are like SpongeBob and Patrick in every way, there is actually a stark distinction. The sea star is most probably not &nbsp; trying to build a friendship with the sponge, and might in fact be figuring out a way to eat it. Scientists said that many species in the genus Chondraster feed on sponges. This is most probably what is unfolding on the seafloor as well.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Reacting to the video, users could not contain their excitement at seeing the real-like duo, albeit in a different social scenario - of prey and predator. A user wrote, "Plot twist: “Patrick” eats “Spongbob"." Another added, "So it was a documentary this whole time."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>One user compared reality and fiction. "Pop culture meets deep-sea abyssal reality. A bright yellow Hertwigia glass sponge right next to a pink Chondraster sea star at 6,200 feet is wild serendipity," the post read, adding, "though in true benthic ecology fashion, that real-life "Patrick" is an apex predator likely looking at SpongeBob."</p><p>Others also questioned whether the video could be artificially generated. However, the video is real and the original one was shared in 2021, a time when AI wasn't as big as today.</p>

NOAA Ocean Exploration captured a yellow sponge and a pink sea star in 2021 in the Atlantic Ocean during an exploration mission. The real-life creatures remind one of famous cartoon characters SpongeBob and Patrick. However, there is one major twist.

A 2021 underwater footage captured by NOAA Ocean Exploration is going viral for the two creatures shown in it. Strangely, scientists came across a yellow sponge like marine animal and a pink sea star, bearing striking resemblance to famous cartoon characters Sponge Bob SquarePants and his friend Patrick. The bright yellow glass sponge belongs to the genus Hertwigia, while the pink sea star is from the genus Chondraster. The discovery was made five years ago on the underwater mountain Retriever Seamount in the Atlantic Ocean at a depth of 6,200 feet. The creatures were spotted during a live scanning of the region using a remotely operated underwater vehicle. Marine biologist Christopher Mah was on the other end, studying the seafloor when he stumbled upon the yellow and pink sea animals strangely right next to each other. "I normally avoid these refs... but WOW. REAL LIFE SpongeBob and Patrick!" Mah, affiliated with the NOAA, wrote next to the video in his X post at the time.

<p>NOAA Ocean Exploration captured a yellow sponge and a pink sea star in 2021 in the Atlantic Ocean during an exploration mission. The real-life creatures remind one of famous cartoon characters SpongeBob and Patrick. However, there is one major twist.</p>

SpongeBob and Patrick lookalikes seen in old viral video in the Atlantic with ONE MAJOR distinction

<p>A giant sea creature classified as endangered was spotted about 500 kilometres off the California coast last week. The whale shark, measuring 14 to 16 ft, was spotted in the Pacific Ocean between Santa Barbara Island and Malibu. Carl Sbarounis, a commercial fisheries pilot, recorded the whale's appearance near California. The sighting has been linked to El Niño, which is driving the whale sharks and other creatures towards the coast.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sbarounis's friend Ryder DeVoe informed him about the creature over the phone. He was flying over the ocean at the time and made his way to the region. "[Ryder] found this 14- to 16-ft whale shark between Santa Barbara Island and Malibu [on] September 9, 2026. I happened to be nearby and came over to video and take some pics of it," Sbarounis wrote on Instagram.</p><h2><strong>Rare and strange creatures spotted near California</strong></h2><p>He added that more such marine species could appear during this El Niño because of the warm oceans. Sbarounis told the Los Angeles Times that the last time he saw a whale shark was three years ago. He added that the rare fish, including other "unusual stuff", are driven to the area when the "weather is nice", and the "water is warm." Sbarounis also spotted tan-brown rays and grey manta rays with a black stripe, or spinetail devil rays.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/el-nino-record-earth-s-oceans-in-2026-are-the-hottest-in-125-000-years-1787647970513"><strong>El Nino record: Earth's oceans in 2026 are the hottest in 125,000 years</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Why do whale sharks come near California?</strong></h2><p>Whale sharks are commonly found off Australia, Baja California and in the Persian Gulf. They thrive in tropical waters and feed on creatures like plankton, krill and sardines. Despite being the world's largest sharks, they are not known to attack humans. Since California's ocean is unusually warm this year because of El Niño, several tropical creatures have been seen in the past few weeks. Bluefin tuna have also made regular appearances off Northern California.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-satellite-spots-strongest-sign-of-super-el-nino-confirming-all-predictions-what-to-expect-1780666935157"><strong>NASA satellite spots strongest sign of Super El Nino, confirming all predictions - What to expect?</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>El Niño in 2026</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The year 2026 has been in the grips of one of the strongest El Niño events, driving ocean waters to become warmer than usual. Europe and the United States witnessed heatwaves in the summer, where temperatures even crossed 45 degrees Celsius in some places. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has said there is a 75 per cent chance that the El Niño would be extremely strong in the winter as well, causing higher temperatures.</p>

A whale shark was seen in the waters off the California coast last week. The rarely seen creature lives in warm ocean waters. El Niño has increased the temperature of the waters near California, which has led not only whale sharks but also other creatures to show up.

A giant sea creature classified as endangered was spotted about 500 kilometres off the California coast last week. The whale shark, measuring 14 to 16 ft, was spotted in the Pacific Ocean between Santa Barbara Island and Malibu. Carl Sbarounis, a commercial fisheries pilot, recorded the whale's appearance near California. The sighting has been linked to El Niño, which is driving the whale sharks and other creatures towards the coast. Sbarounis's friend Ryder DeVoe informed him about the creature over the phone. He was flying over the ocean at the time and made his way to the region. "[Ryder] found this 14- to 16-ft whale shark between Santa Barbara Island and Malibu [on] September 9, 2026. I happened to be nearby and came over to video and take some pics of it," Sbarounis wrote on Instagram. Rare and strange creatures spotted near California He added that more such marine species could appear during this El Niño because of the warm oceans. Sbarounis told the Los Angeles Times that the last time he saw a whale shark was three years ago. He added that the rare fish, including other "unusual stuff", are driven to the area when the "weather is nice", and the "water is warm." Sbarounis also spotted tan-brown rays and grey manta rays with a black stripe, or spinetail devil rays. Also Read: El Nino record: Earth's oceans in 2026 are the hottest in 125,000 years Why do whale sharks come near California? Whale sharks are commonly found off Australia, Baja California and in the Persian Gulf. They thrive in tropical waters and feed on creatures like plankton, krill and sardines. Despite being the world's largest sharks, they are not known to attack humans. Since California's ocean is unusually warm this year because of El Niño, several tropical creatures have been seen in the past few weeks. Bluefin tuna have also made regular appearances off Northern California. Also Read: NASA satellite spots strongest sign of Super El Nino, confirming all predictions - What to expect?

<p>A whale shark was seen in the waters off the California coast last week. The rarely seen creature lives in warm ocean waters. El Niño has increased the temperature of the waters near California, which has led not only whale sharks but also other creatures to show up.</p>

16-foot sea creature seen near California: Super El Nino drives rare animals towards SoCal

<p>Scientists have found the demon cavefish in an Alabama cave system located directly below the Redstone Arsenal, a rocket development hub for NASA. The discovery was made in the Bobcat Cave, where several endemic life forms exist. Now, a team of scientists from the <a href="https://www.uah.edu/news/items/hiding-plain-sight-uah-researchers-discover-new-demon-cavefish-in-north-alabama-cave">University of Alabama in Huntsville</a> (UAH), Auburn University, and Mississippi State University have stumbled upon the Demogorgonichthys arcanus, which breaks down to refer to the mythological demogorgon and arcanus (secret), earning it the nickname demon cavefish.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The most eerie part of this fish is that it doesn't have eyes. While another cavefish dwelling in this region, southern cavefish (Typhlichthys subterraneus), also has no eyes, the two aren't related. What shocked researchers the most was that this is the first time they saw the demon cavefish despite the cave being monitored several times in the past 30 years. Bobcat Cave is scanned four times each year, but never before did anyone see this demon fish.</p><h2><strong>Cavefish in Bobcat Cave</strong></h2><p>This is because it is different from the southern cavefish. "The Demon Cavefish shares its cave, and the very same pools, with the Southern Cavefish, yet the two aren't close relatives," Matthew Niemiller, lead author of the study, said. "Each found its own separate way into the underground world and lost its eyes and pigment independently, millions of years apart. It's a vivid case of convergent evolution," he said.</p><h2><strong>Why was demon fish not seen till now?</strong></h2><p>So while scientists knew about the Southern Cavefish, they never saw the demon cavefish because it lives at much greater depth. Researchers said this is linked to the absence of a gene in it. The southern cavefish contains a rhodopsin gene, related to light sensitivity. But the newly discovered demon cavefish lacked part of this gene. “It may have been living down in the aquifer and only recently made its way up,” Auburn University’s Jonathan Armbruster, a co-author of the study, said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, he believes it is possible that it was there all this time and they never saw it. Bobcat Cave is home to many other endemic subterranean creatures, and they all seem to have been protected because the land above is under federal purview. Scientists say finding more such species in this cave will require humans to continue protecting the land. "The Demon Cavefish is a reminder that our inventories are far from finished, even in well-explored places," Niemiller said.</p>

The Demogorgon fish has been found in a cave under the land where rockets are made for NASA. It has no eyes and has eluded humans for decades, only now making an appearance. This fish dwells in deeper waters because of a lack of pigment.

Scientists have found the demon cavefish in an Alabama cave system located directly below the Redstone Arsenal, a rocket development hub for NASA. The discovery was made in the Bobcat Cave, where several endemic life forms exist. Now, a team of scientists from the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), Auburn University, and Mississippi State University have stumbled upon the Demogorgonichthys arcanus, which breaks down to refer to the mythological demogorgon and arcanus (secret), earning it the nickname demon cavefish. The most eerie part of this fish is that it doesn't have eyes. While another cavefish dwelling in this region, southern cavefish (Typhlichthys subterraneus), also has no eyes, the two aren't related. What shocked researchers the most was that this is the first time they saw the demon cavefish despite the cave being monitored several times in the past 30 years. Bobcat Cave is scanned four times each year, but never before did anyone see this demon fish. Cavefish in Bobcat Cave This is because it is different from the southern cavefish. "The Demon Cavefish shares its cave, and the very same pools, with the Southern Cavefish, yet the two aren't close relatives," Matthew Niemiller, lead author of the study, said. "Each found its own separate way into the underground world and lost its eyes and pigment independently, millions of years apart. It's a vivid case of convergent evolution," he said. Why was demon fish not seen till now? So while scientists knew about the Southern Cavefish, they never saw the demon cavefish because it lives at much greater depth. Researchers said this is linked to the absence of a gene in it. The southern cavefish contains a rhodopsin gene, related to light sensitivity. But the newly discovered demon cavefish lacked part of this gene. “It may have been living down in the aquifer and only recently made its way up,” Auburn University’s Jonathan Armbruster, a co-author of the study, said. However, he believes it is possible that it was there all this time and they never saw it. Bobcat Cave is home to many other endemic subterranean creatures, and they all seem to have been protected because the land above is under federal purview. Scientists say finding more such species in this cave will require humans to continue protecting the land. "The Demon Cavefish is a reminder that our inventories are far from finished, even in well-explored places," Niemiller said.

<p>The Demogorgon fish has been found in a cave under the land where rockets are made for NASA. It has no eyes and has eluded humans for decades, only now making an appearance. This fish dwells in deeper waters because of a lack of pigment.</p>

Demogorgon fish with no eyes found in cave under military land in Alabama

<p>Under the surface of the Pacific Ocean, from Sumatra and Java in the west to Chile in the east, lightning bolts have been seen under the surface. They are not dependent on storms and quickly vanish, just like the lightning in the sky. The phenomenon in the Ring of Fire is known as te lapa, or "the flashing." However, scientists are still trying to figure out what causes them. Experts say that ancient Polynesian wayfinders used these bolts of lightning in the seas to navigate.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Cultural anthropologist Marianne George is one of the few to see them in the Ring of Fire at the isolated island of Taumako in the Solomon Islands. She describes them as "a torch that was lit and instantly blown out." Marianne also noticed that they emerged from submerged land, possibly why they used them to locate land.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Marianne made multiple trips to Taumako to try to understand the origin of te lapa. She published a study in Time and Mind in 2013, in which she stated that researchers are looking at bioluminescence and electrical/magnetic phenomena to figure out what causes te lapa.</p><h2><strong>Current technology cannot understand the lightning bolts</strong></h2><p>Marianne also admits in the study that current scientific tools might not be advanced enough to measure or detect it, or researchers simply don't have access to the gear needed out at sea. Later, she hypothesised that the constant tectonic shifts in the Ring of Fire that cause volcanic eruptions in the belt could trigger electromagnetic emissions from the islands, creating the phantom lights that appear like lightning.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientist-blames-dark-matter-at-centre-of-milky-way-for-mass-extinctions-on-earth-1785246607054"><strong>Scientist finds a pattern to Earth's mass extinctions, and it's hiding in deep space</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, there are certain things that have been ruled out as the source. Stars, satellites, and any other cosmic event are not responsible for this occurrence. St. Elmo’s Fire, the bluish-purple plasma, remained a contender, but soon scientists figured out that it cannot occur underwater. Submersibles detected voltage spikes around hydrothermal vents and volcanoes on the Pacific floor, triggering theories about electrical discharges. But since saltwater is a strong conductor, any electrical charge would not build up.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-stumbled-upon-four-jet-black-eggs-20-000-feet-below-ocean-they-turned-out-to-be-1752050826299"><strong>Scientists stumbled upon four pitch-black eggs 20,000 feet below ocean. They turned out to be…</strong></a></p><h2><strong>The mystery of lightning in the ocean remains unsolved</strong></h2><p>For now, experts think that plate tectonics and strange conditions in the deep sea could be causing this lightning in the Pacific. Harvard professor and researcher John Huth said, "There is currently no definitive explanation of the origin of te lapa." He added, "One possibility is that it is the byproduct of fish darting in a patch of sea that is rich in dinoflagellates (microorganisms that glow in the dark), which emit light in response to pressure waves." Further research is required to figure out if they play a role in it. Until then, the flashes of lightning remain a mystery.</p>

Lightning should not occur under the ocean, but this is exactly what happens in the Pacific Ring of Fire. Ancient people used them to navigate in the dark. Scientists have tried to explain them for decades, but have yet to solve the mystery.

Under the surface of the Pacific Ocean, from Sumatra and Java in the west to Chile in the east, lightning bolts have been seen under the surface. They are not dependent on storms and quickly vanish, just like the lightning in the sky. The phenomenon in the Ring of Fire is known as te lapa, or "the flashing." However, scientists are still trying to figure out what causes them. Experts say that ancient Polynesian wayfinders used these bolts of lightning in the seas to navigate. Cultural anthropologist Marianne George is one of the few to see them in the Ring of Fire at the isolated island of Taumako in the Solomon Islands. She describes them as "a torch that was lit and instantly blown out." Marianne also noticed that they emerged from submerged land, possibly why they used them to locate land. Marianne made multiple trips to Taumako to try to understand the origin of te lapa. She published a study in Time and Mind in 2013, in which she stated that researchers are looking at bioluminescence and electrical/magnetic phenomena to figure out what causes te lapa. Current technology cannot understand the lightning bolts Marianne also admits in the study that current scientific tools might not be advanced enough to measure or detect it, or researchers simply don't have access to the gear needed out at sea. Later, she hypothesised that the constant tectonic shifts in the Ring of Fire that cause volcanic eruptions in the belt could trigger electromagnetic emissions from the islands, creating the phantom lights that appear like lightning. Also Read: Scientist finds a pattern to Earth's mass extinctions, and it's hiding in deep space However, there are certain things that have been ruled out as the source. Stars, satellites, and any other cosmic event are not responsible for this occurrence. St. Elmo’s Fire, the bluish-purple plasma, remained a contender, but soon scientists figured out that it cannot occur underwater. Submersibles detected voltage spikes around hydrothermal vents and volcanoes on the Pacific floor, triggering theories about electrical discharges. But since saltwater is a strong conductor, any electrical charge would not build up. Also Read: Scientists stumbled upon four pitch-black eggs 20,000 feet below ocean. They turned out to be… The mystery of lightning in the ocean remains unsolved For now, experts think that plate tectonics and strange conditions in the deep sea could be causing this lightning in the Pacific. Harvard professor and researcher John Huth said, "There is currently no definitive explanation of the origin of te lapa." He added, "One possibility is that it is the byproduct of fish darting in a patch of sea that is rich in dinoflagellates (microorganisms that glow in the dark), which emit light in response to pressure waves." Further research is required to figure out if they play a role in it. Until then, the flashes of lightning remain a mystery.

<p>Lightning should not occur under the ocean, but this is exactly what happens in the Pacific Ring of Fire. Ancient people used them to navigate in the dark. Scientists have tried to explain them for decades, but have yet to solve the mystery.</p>

Underwater lightning bolts in the Pacific Ring of Fire baffle scientists

<p>A pair of orcas did something unbelievable in the Gulf of California, headbutting into a sunfish with such power that it exploded into several pieces. Orcas are extremely aggressive predators, but this was unlike anything scientists had seen before. The sunfish was already dead, but it is enormous, bony and weighs 2,000 kilograms. So feeding on it is not easy for the orcas. The technique is a way to process the food so that the younger calves can consume it easily. However, it is also possible that they are doing it purely for fun.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The observations were published in the journal Frontiers in Ethology on July 23. The researchers dubbed this behaviour "ram-to-fragment." They observed it happening twice, in 2024 and 2025. The aim was not to kill the sunfish, since it was already dead, but to split it into fragments to make it easier for the young to feed.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The video shows one orca holding a sharp-tail sunfish, as its partner rams into it at full speed. The first fish releases it moments before impact, after which the carcass explodes, sending the flesh flying all around the sea.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sharks-expected-to-invade-california-beaches-as-super-el-nino-heats-up-the-pacific-1784627452211"><strong>Sharks expected to invade California beaches as Super El Nino heats up the Pacific</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kathryn Ayres, a scientist at the conservation nonprofit Beneath the Waves, told Live Science, "It was unlike anything I'd witnessed before." Orcas have been seen using this technique in the past as well, but never before have scientists seen one bursting.</p>

<h2><strong>Orca smashes sunfish into hundreds of pieces</strong></h2><p>The first encounter was recorded in July 2024 off Baja California Sur, Mexico. An adult female orca held the tail-like clavus, or rudder, while an adult male orca zoomed towards it, as the female released the fish seconds before the male struck. A loud boom can be heard, as Ayres lets out an "Oh my god!" in shock.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/monster-fish-20-times-their-original-size-are-swarming-scottish-lochs-1784096631032"><strong>'Monster fish' 20 times their original size are swarming Scottish lochs</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A young orca then comes and feeds on the pieces of flesh, while the adults eat what's on the carcass. "I had also seen orcas ram their prey previously, but I had never witnessed an impact powerful enough to completely fragment the tissue like this," Ayres said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Diver Héctor Franz recorded the second scene in September 2025, where a similar scene unfolded. Orcas have been previously documented using the same technique on whale sharks, taking turns ramming into them.</p>

Orcas were seen doing something unthinkable in the  Gulf of California. A pair got hold of a sunfish, with one of them holding it and the other ramming into it at full speed, breaking it into several pieces. The mid-sea action left scientists stunned.

A pair of orcas did something unbelievable in the Gulf of California, headbutting into a sunfish with such power that it exploded into several pieces. Orcas are extremely aggressive predators, but this was unlike anything scientists had seen before. The sunfish was already dead, but it is enormous, bony and weighs 2,000 kilograms. So feeding on it is not easy for the orcas. The technique is a way to process the food so that the younger calves can consume it easily. However, it is also possible that they are doing it purely for fun. The observations were published in the journal Frontiers in Ethology on July 23. The researchers dubbed this behaviour "ram-to-fragment." They observed it happening twice, in 2024 and 2025. The aim was not to kill the sunfish, since it was already dead, but to split it into fragments to make it easier for the young to feed. The video shows one orca holding a sharp-tail sunfish, as its partner rams into it at full speed. The first fish releases it moments before impact, after which the carcass explodes, sending the flesh flying all around the sea. Also Read: Sharks expected to invade California beaches as Super El Nino heats up the Pacific Kathryn Ayres, a scientist at the conservation nonprofit Beneath the Waves, told Live Science, "It was unlike anything I'd witnessed before." Orcas have been seen using this technique in the past as well, but never before have scientists seen one bursting.

<p>Orcas were seen doing something unthinkable in the &nbsp;Gulf of California. A pair got hold of a sunfish, with one of them holding it and the other ramming into it at full speed, breaking it into several pieces. The mid-sea action left scientists stunned.</p>

'Oh my god!' Orca deliberately rams into sunfish so hard that it exploded. For food or fun?

<p>Three bones discovered between 1995 and 1997 in the Ajimu region of Japan belong to a giant salamander that scientists had never identified before. The mystery creature has been named Limnospondylus ajimuensis and lived about 3.5 million years ago in lakes. Researchers said that it measured about 3.6 feet, almost as big as some of the largest amphibians we have on Earth today. The three fossilised vertebrae were discovered nearly 30 years ago in the Tsubusugawa Formation. This region has ancient lake sediments which have previously revealed other animals, such as elephants and crocodiles, in the past. Some of the creatures found here no longer exist in Japan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The salamander bones were initially assigned to the genus Andrias, which includes the Japanese and Chinese giant salamanders. It was only a temporary classification, as scientists did not have enough skeletal material to classify it. A team of researchers from Kyoto University decided to carry out a detailed analysis of the three bones. They used a much broader collection of modern and extinct giant salamander specimens for the study.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/monster-fish-20-times-their-original-size-are-swarming-scottish-lochs-1784096631032"><strong>'Monster fish' 20 times their original size are swarming Scottish lochs</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Giant salamander fossils in Japan</strong></h2><p>Scientists said that since the bones were found in different locations and differed in size, they were not from one animal. The fossils represented an anterior trunk vertebra, a mid-trunk vertebra, and a sacro-caudal vertebra. The revelation happened because of a mid-trunk vertebra. The feature had not been seen in the anatomy of any known member of the giant salamander family, Cryptobranchidae. This led the researchers to create an entirely new species.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/fragments-of-seven-legged-giant-with-20-inch-arms-wash-ashore-in-scotland-it-is-a-1765375636560"><strong>Fragments of seven-legged giant with 20 inch arms wash ashore in Scotland</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Ajimu contains the only site in the world where fossils of the giant salamander family and extant genera have both been found,” first author Masahiro Noda said. The team says that the discovery fills a major gap in the history of giant salamanders. The ancient amphibian lineage has been around for roughly 60 million years.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The creatures inhabited much of the Northern Hemisphere, but in Asia, their fossil record has a gap of more than 20 million years. The discovery of Limnospondylus suggests that giant salamanders were once more diverse in Asia than previously believed.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

Giant salamanders lived in Japan millions of years ago, and the discovery made nearly three decades ago is only now revealing their existence. Scientists say the findings fill a gap in the fossil record of more than 20 million years.  

Three bones discovered between 1995 and 1997 in the Ajimu region of Japan belong to a giant salamander that scientists had never identified before. The mystery creature has been named Limnospondylus ajimuensis and lived about 3.5 million years ago in lakes. Researchers said that it measured about 3.6 feet, almost as big as some of the largest amphibians we have on Earth today. The three fossilised vertebrae were discovered nearly 30 years ago in the Tsubusugawa Formation. This region has ancient lake sediments which have previously revealed other animals, such as elephants and crocodiles, in the past. Some of the creatures found here no longer exist in Japan. The salamander bones were initially assigned to the genus Andrias, which includes the Japanese and Chinese giant salamanders. It was only a temporary classification, as scientists did not have enough skeletal material to classify it. A team of researchers from Kyoto University decided to carry out a detailed analysis of the three bones. They used a much broader collection of modern and extinct giant salamander specimens for the study. Also Read: 'Monster fish' 20 times their original size are swarming Scottish lochs Giant salamander fossils in Japan Scientists said that since the bones were found in different locations and differed in size, they were not from one animal. The fossils represented an anterior trunk vertebra, a mid-trunk vertebra, and a sacro-caudal vertebra. The revelation happened because of a mid-trunk vertebra. The feature had not been seen in the anatomy of any known member of the giant salamander family, Cryptobranchidae. This led the researchers to create an entirely new species. Also Read: Fragments of seven-legged giant with 20 inch arms wash ashore in Scotland “Ajimu contains the only site in the world where fossils of the giant salamander family and extant genera have both been found,” first author Masahiro Noda said. The team says that the discovery fills a major gap in the history of giant salamanders. The ancient amphibian lineage has been around for roughly 60 million years. The creatures inhabited much of the Northern Hemisphere, but in Asia, their fossil record has a gap of more than 20 million years. The discovery of Limnospondylus suggests that giant salamanders were once more diverse in Asia than previously believed.

<p>Giant salamanders lived in Japan millions of years ago, and the discovery made nearly three decades ago is only now revealing their existence. Scientists say the findings fill a gap in the fossil record of more than 20 million years. &nbsp;</p>

3.5-million-year-old mystery creature found in Japan is a 'giant' never seen before

<p>Scientists have for the first time captured a haunting portion of the Atlantic Ocean spanning 60,000 square kilometres, about the size of Lake Michigan. The Doldrums Megatransform and Fracture Zone consists of tectonic fractures where Earth's crust is being reshaped constantly. At a depth of 13,123 feet, they discovered in this twilight zone two never-before-seen hydrothermal fields. These are regions on the seafloor from which heat and chemicals seep into the ocean from inside Earth, creating the perfect conditions for life to thrive. This region was teeming with shrimps, crabs and anemones, along with a barreleye fish seen for the very first time.</p><h2><strong>First-ever sighting of the Barreleye fish</strong></h2><p>The discovery was made by researchers from the Schmidt Ocean Institute. The fish belongs to a species named Winteria telescope and was seen at a depth of 2,300 feet, filmed for the first time in its natural habitat. Barreleye fish gets its name from the way its eyes are arranged - two tubular eyes capped with light-sensitive lenses. The interesting part is that they got to see the transparent, fluid-filled dome of the head inside which the eyes are located. Since this dome is extremely delicate, it collapses when the fish is removed from the sea. Hence, humans had never really seen this feature of the Barreleye fish.</p><h2><strong>Creepiest resident of the deep sea</strong></h2><p>At 12,000 feet, they found the bigfin squid, belonging to the genus Magnapinna. It is one of the eeriest creatures residing in the deepest portion of the ocean. Scientists used the remotely controlled underwater vehicle SuBastian and the autonomous underwater vehicle The Childlike Empress from the deck of the research vessel Falkor (too) to peer deep into the Atlantic Ocean. Marine scientist Aaron Micallef of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute in California led the team in this endeavour.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Even in the Atlantic Ocean, where plate boundaries have been studied for decades, there are still places where the first close look can reveal something entirely new," Micallef said. The Doldrums is an active fault system that slices across the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, part of the world's longest mountain chain.</p>

The Doldrums fault system, located deep beneath the Atlantic Ocean, has revealed itself as a haunting and creepy zone at a depth of over 13,000 feet. Scientists saw a fish with barrel-like eyes for the first time, along with two never-before-seen hydrothermal fields. 

Scientists have for the first time captured a haunting portion of the Atlantic Ocean spanning 60,000 square kilometres, about the size of Lake Michigan. The Doldrums Megatransform and Fracture Zone consists of tectonic fractures where Earth's crust is being reshaped constantly. At a depth of 13,123 feet, they discovered in this twilight zone two never-before-seen hydrothermal fields. These are regions on the seafloor from which heat and chemicals seep into the ocean from inside Earth, creating the perfect conditions for life to thrive. This region was teeming with shrimps, crabs and anemones, along with a barreleye fish seen for the very first time. First-ever sighting of the Barreleye fish The discovery was made by researchers from the Schmidt Ocean Institute. The fish belongs to a species named Winteria telescope and was seen at a depth of 2,300 feet, filmed for the first time in its natural habitat. Barreleye fish gets its name from the way its eyes are arranged - two tubular eyes capped with light-sensitive lenses. The interesting part is that they got to see the transparent, fluid-filled dome of the head inside which the eyes are located. Since this dome is extremely delicate, it collapses when the fish is removed from the sea. Hence, humans had never really seen this feature of the Barreleye fish. Creepiest resident of the deep sea At 12,000 feet, they found the bigfin squid, belonging to the genus Magnapinna. It is one of the eeriest creatures residing in the deepest portion of the ocean. Scientists used the remotely controlled underwater vehicle SuBastian and the autonomous underwater vehicle The Childlike Empress from the deck of the research vessel Falkor (too) to peer deep into the Atlantic Ocean. Marine scientist Aaron Micallef of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute in California led the team in this endeavour. "Even in the Atlantic Ocean, where plate boundaries have been studied for decades, there are still places where the first close look can reveal something entirely new," Micallef said. The Doldrums is an active fault system that slices across the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, part of the world's longest mountain chain.

<p>The Doldrums fault system, located deep beneath the Atlantic Ocean, has revealed itself as a haunting and creepy zone at a depth of over 13,000 feet. Scientists saw a fish with barrel-like eyes for the first time, along with two never-before-seen hydrothermal fields.&nbsp;</p>

13,123 feet below Atlantic, in the Doldrums, an eerie creature is seen for the first time

<p>Super El Niño has driven ocean temperatures to record levels, with two agencies reporting that they touched new highs last month. Scientists have warned that this is just the beginning and the ocean surface could get even hotter. The data was confirmed by the Copernicus Climate Change Service and the Copernicus Marine Service. “With ocean temperatures at these levels and El Niño on the horizon, we are likely to see more temperature records fall in the coming months,” said Copernicus Climate Change Service director Carlo Buontempo in a statement. He warned that the world is entering "uncharted territory."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to both Copernicus observation programs, global ocean temperatures in June 2026 surpassed those recorded in 2023 and 2024. Experts said that this "unprecedented level of warming" was due to climate change and El Niño. Scientists had earlier warned that El Niño would assume monstrous proportions in 2026, leading to extreme heat across the globe, along with floods and droughts. It is expected to be the worst one in over 150 years. The effects are already being felt in Europe, India and the United States.</p><h2><strong>Ocean temperature surged to a record high</strong></h2><p>Average ocean temperatures touched nearly 21 degrees Celsius last month. What we are seeing are the effects of climate change, and the world's oceans are facing the full brunt. Greenhouse gas emissions have surged and trap infrared radiation in the Earth’s atmosphere. But it retains only a tiny bit of it, with the excess heat being absorbed by the oceans. They are taking in more than 90 per cent of this excess heat generated by humans, according to reports.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-s-66-billion-trees-in-deserts-are-absorbing-more-co2-and-growing-faster-than-natural-ones-1782903613724"><strong>China's 66 billion trees in deserts are absorbing more CO2 and growing faster than natural ones</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Why this is killing oceans and consequently humans?</strong></h2><p>The oceans protect us by soaking up the excess heat because of their incredibly high specific heat capacity. However, as they continue to warm, their ability to do this is adversely affected. They become incapable of absorbing CO2 over time. The ill health of the oceans means there is more CO2 left in the atmosphere, which accelerates global warming, creating a loop where oceans are further degraded. With more heat remaining in the atmosphere, conditions deteriorate, creating an unlivable environment.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/analysis-what-india-and-europe-can-learn-from-each-other-in-heat-preparedness-1782556349271"><strong>Analysis: What India and Europe can learn from each other in heat preparedness?</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Heat dome</strong></h2><p>Super El Niño and climate change have combined to create one of the worst summers in Europe. The roads have melted, and people are struggling to survive as a heat dome has formed over this part of the world. The United States is also witnessing a heat dome in the week of July 4, leaving parts of North Carolina and surrounding places searing hot.</p>

Oceans are bearing the brunt of climate change and El Niño, with surface temperatures touching a record high in June 2026. If humans keep pumping more emissions into the atmosphere, the oceans will fall sick forever, causing chaos worldwide.

Super El Niño has driven ocean temperatures to record levels, with two agencies reporting that they touched new highs last month. Scientists have warned that this is just the beginning and the ocean surface could get even hotter. The data was confirmed by the Copernicus Climate Change Service and the Copernicus Marine Service. “With ocean temperatures at these levels and El Niño on the horizon, we are likely to see more temperature records fall in the coming months,” said Copernicus Climate Change Service director Carlo Buontempo in a statement. He warned that the world is entering "uncharted territory." According to both Copernicus observation programs, global ocean temperatures in June 2026 surpassed those recorded in 2023 and 2024. Experts said that this "unprecedented level of warming" was due to climate change and El Niño. Scientists had earlier warned that El Niño would assume monstrous proportions in 2026, leading to extreme heat across the globe, along with floods and droughts. It is expected to be the worst one in over 150 years. The effects are already being felt in Europe, India and the United States. Ocean temperature surged to a record high Average ocean temperatures touched nearly 21 degrees Celsius last month. What we are seeing are the effects of climate change, and the world's oceans are facing the full brunt. Greenhouse gas emissions have surged and trap infrared radiation in the Earth’s atmosphere. But it retains only a tiny bit of it, with the excess heat being absorbed by the oceans. They are taking in more than 90 per cent of this excess heat generated by humans, according to reports. Also Read: China's 66 billion trees in deserts are absorbing more CO2 and growing faster than natural ones Why this is killing oceans and consequently humans? The oceans protect us by soaking up the excess heat because of their incredibly high specific heat capacity. However, as they continue to warm, their ability to do this is adversely affected. They become incapable of absorbing CO2 over time. The ill health of the oceans means there is more CO2 left in the atmosphere, which accelerates global warming, creating a loop where oceans are further degraded. With more heat remaining in the atmosphere, conditions deteriorate, creating an unlivable environment. Also Read: Analysis: What India and Europe can learn from each other in heat preparedness? Heat dome Super El Niño and climate change have combined to create one of the worst summers in Europe. The roads have melted, and people are struggling to survive as a heat dome has formed over this part of the world. The United States is also witnessing a heat dome in the week of July 4, leaving parts of North Carolina and surrounding places searing hot.

<p>Oceans are bearing the brunt of climate change and El Niño, with surface temperatures touching a record high in June 2026. If humans keep pumping more emissions into the atmosphere, the oceans will fall sick forever, causing chaos worldwide.</p>

Oceans were hottest in June 2026, pushing humanity towards a doomsday scenario

<p>Scientists have found the reason for the vanishing of Great White Sharks in a South African Bay. The numbers started to dwindle in 2015, and by 2018, oceanographers found almost no traces of this beast. It remained a mystery for the longest time, before they finally zeroed in on the culprits - Orcas Port and Starboard. David Hurwitz, a whale-watching tour operator, was the first to see two male orcas hunting and killing sharks. They were hunting in pairs, when orcas typically hunt in groups. They were not trying to eat the whole animal and instead only targeted the liver for its dense calories. In 2022, five more orcas were seen working in cahoots, targeting a great white shark to remove its liver in one swift motion. What shocked the scientists the most was that great whites were never the prey. So when they faced this sudden threat from killer whales, they fled the sea and moved to other coastlines.</p><h2><strong>Orca pair hunting Great White Sharks</strong></h2><p>The great mystery of the disappearance of the sharks led scientists to do a deep dive. CBS News this year, and the Washington Post last year, carried out separate investigations to uncover the reason for the creatures leaving the False Bay near Cape Town. Wildlife photographer Chris Fallows documented witnessing around 250 to 300 different great white sharks in the area before 2015. Then, marine biologist Alison Kock came across smaller shark carcasses on the sea floor. They had surgical-looking incisions, which were so clean that they appeared to have been made by humans. Further investigation revealed that they were tooth marks from orcas that her team saw hunting in their study area. Two years later, great white shark carcasses started washing ashore, and all of them had the same incision marks. Necropsies confirmed that orcas have been feeding on great whites, specifically for their livers. This meant that the killer whales had found a new source of food, driving the great whites away in fear.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/human-contact-has-scarred-80-per-cent-of-whale-sharks-in-popular-tourist-waters-scientists-warn-1756387171193"><strong>Humans have injured 80% of whale sharks in THIS popular tourist waters</strong></a></p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ghostly-silence-from-blue-whales-an-ominous-sign-for-the-world-scientists-warn-1753863195541"><strong>Ghostly silence from blue whales is an ominous sign for the world</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Are humans passing the blame onto Orcas?</strong></h2><p>Orcas have never been known to hunt in pairs, which made this finding extremely intriguing. Second, they seem to have passed on their knowledge to other killer whales, as five of them were seen killing one great white in 2022. Although whales hunt sharks off the coast of California and around Australia, it had never been seen in South Africa. More shockingly, the sharks eventually return in the former regions, but not in South Africa. Kock told CBS News that Great white sharks are apex predators, but orcas are smart hunters and "learning all the time." However, Italian marine biologist Enrico Gennari blames humans for their disappearance. He says great whites are getting stuck in long-line hooks in commercial fishing boats. He added that South African nets and baited hooks meant to protect swimmers kill more than 20 great whites every year.&nbsp;</p>

Great White Sharks have vanished in a Cape Town bay. Scientists say a murderous pair is killing them for their livers, which led the apex predator to escape. But some say humans are killing more sharks than any orcas can.  

Scientists have found the reason for the vanishing of Great White Sharks in a South African Bay. The numbers started to dwindle in 2015, and by 2018, oceanographers found almost no traces of this beast. It remained a mystery for the longest time, before they finally zeroed in on the culprits - Orcas Port and Starboard. David Hurwitz, a whale-watching tour operator, was the first to see two male orcas hunting and killing sharks. They were hunting in pairs, when orcas typically hunt in groups. They were not trying to eat the whole animal and instead only targeted the liver for its dense calories. In 2022, five more orcas were seen working in cahoots, targeting a great white shark to remove its liver in one swift motion. What shocked the scientists the most was that great whites were never the prey. So when they faced this sudden threat from killer whales, they fled the sea and moved to other coastlines. Orca pair hunting Great White Sharks The great mystery of the disappearance of the sharks led scientists to do a deep dive. CBS News this year, and the Washington Post last year, carried out separate investigations to uncover the reason for the creatures leaving the False Bay near Cape Town. Wildlife photographer Chris Fallows documented witnessing around 250 to 300 different great white sharks in the area before 2015. Then, marine biologist Alison Kock came across smaller shark carcasses on the sea floor. They had surgical-looking incisions, which were so clean that they appeared to have been made by humans. Further investigation revealed that they were tooth marks from orcas that her team saw hunting in their study area. Two years later, great white shark carcasses started washing ashore, and all of them had the same incision marks. Necropsies confirmed that orcas have been feeding on great whites, specifically for their livers. This meant that the killer whales had found a new source of food, driving the great whites away in fear. Also Read: Humans have injured 80% of whale sharks in THIS popular tourist waters Also Read: Ghostly silence from blue whales is an ominous sign for the world Are humans passing the blame onto Orcas? Orcas have never been known to hunt in pairs, which made this finding extremely intriguing. Second, they seem to have passed on their knowledge to other killer whales, as five of them were seen killing one great white in 2022. Although whales hunt sharks off the coast of California and around Australia, it had never been seen in South Africa. More shockingly, the sharks eventually return in the former regions, but not in South Africa. Kock told CBS News that Great white sharks are apex predators, but orcas are smart hunters and "learning all the time." However, Italian marine biologist Enrico Gennari blames humans for their disappearance. He says great whites are getting stuck in long-line hooks in commercial fishing boats. He added that South African nets and baited hooks meant to protect swimmers kill more than 20 great whites every year.

<p>Great White Sharks have vanished in a Cape Town bay. Scientists say a murderous pair is killing them for their livers, which led the apex predator to escape. But some say humans are killing more sharks than any orcas can. &nbsp;</p>

Marauding couple on liver hunt triggered a great vanishing in South Africa

<p>Scientists have discovered a "deep-sea oasis" nearly 4,000 meters beneath the Arctic Ocean that changes previous understanding of how deep-sea biodiversity works. The findings include the deepest known methane hydrate mounds, also known as Freya mounds, below the surface on the Molloy Ridge in the Greenland Sea. A team of researchers, led by Giuliana Panieri and Jonathan T. Copley, published the findings in Nature Communications. The study rewrites the understanding of how life survives in the most extreme conditions on Earth. It mentions how solid structures are trapping methane, other gases and crude oil under the Arctic seafloor. This oasis is teeming with life, as amphipods and caridean red shrimp inhabit the waters around the mounds.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Lead author &nbsp;Panieri, of UiT The Arctic University of Norway, said, "These hydrate mounds represent the deepest cold seeps ever found in the Arctic. They are active, dynamic systems that host unique life forms and play a role in global carbon cycling. “This discovery rewrites the playbook for Arctic deep-sea ecosystems and carbon cycling.”</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/remote-iran-volcano-stirs-up-after-700-000-years-as-satellites-spot-a-bulge-at-the-summit-1767685621653"><strong>Taftan volcano stirs up after 700,000 years as ground seen rising from space</strong></a></p><h2><strong>"Freya mounds" are made up of frozen methane</strong></h2><p>These are the deepest methane hydrate mounds ever recorded in the Arctic. Scientists found a thriving ecosystem supported by chemosynthesis in a region that is completely dark and has extremely cold conditions, essentially making it impossible to support life. A unique food web has formed in the region, with bacteria feeding on methane and sulfide as energy sources. The "Freya mounds" are made up of frozen methane, other gases, and crude oil and are shaped like a cone. They release massive gas flares, plumes of methane-rich bubbles that rise over 3,300 metres high. The researchers used a remotely operated vehicle named Aurora to find a whole new world where these six-metre-wide conical mounds reside.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/hidden-network-of-tunnels-and-caves-could-surround-the-world-s-deepest-blue-hole-1767861906466"><strong>World's deepest blue hole remained a secret until 2021 because it is invisible from space</strong></a></p><h2><strong>“Forests” of shrimp, snails, and amphipods were found</strong></h2><p>The ROV captured images of over 20 species living in this oasis, with a dense population of Sclerolinum tube worms, caridean red shrimp, snails, and amphipods present. The expedition took place in May 2024 and also led them to uncover chemical "fingerprints" that reveal the hydrocarbons (methane, propane, and butane) leaking from the seafloor originate from source rock dating back to the Miocene age, millions of years ago. This discovery alters the understanding of global carbon cycling, systems that play a critical role in how the greenhouse gas methane is stored and released from the seabed. The gas mixture also includes ethane, propane, and butane, suggesting that they are coming from deep in the Earth's crust.</p><h2><strong>Deep-sea mining</strong></h2><p>Norway opened this Arctic region for seabed mineral exploration in early 2024. Following pressure from the public, it paused issuing new mining licenses and has suspended public funding for further seabed mineral mapping until at least the end of 2029. This discovery proves that there is a lot humans still don't know about seafloors. It is crucial to know about them before we go digging them up, something that can have grave consequences.</p>

An unknown world has been found 4,000 meters beneath the Arctic Ocean, below the Molloy Ridge in the Greenland Sea. The Freya mounds host unique life forms like tube worms and shrimp, fueled by ancient methane. This discovery sparks debate about the implications of deep-sea mining.

Scientists have discovered a "deep-sea oasis" nearly 4,000 meters beneath the Arctic Ocean that changes previous understanding of how deep-sea biodiversity works. The findings include the deepest known methane hydrate mounds, also known as Freya mounds, below the surface on the Molloy Ridge in the Greenland Sea. A team of researchers, led by Giuliana Panieri and Jonathan T. Copley, published the findings in Nature Communications. The study rewrites the understanding of how life survives in the most extreme conditions on Earth. It mentions how solid structures are trapping methane, other gases and crude oil under the Arctic seafloor. This oasis is teeming with life, as amphipods and caridean red shrimp inhabit the waters around the mounds. Lead author Panieri, of UiT The Arctic University of Norway, said, "These hydrate mounds represent the deepest cold seeps ever found in the Arctic. They are active, dynamic systems that host unique life forms and play a role in global carbon cycling. “This discovery rewrites the playbook for Arctic deep-sea ecosystems and carbon cycling.” Also Read: Taftan volcano stirs up after 700,000 years as ground seen rising from space "Freya mounds" are made up of frozen methane These are the deepest methane hydrate mounds ever recorded in the Arctic. Scientists found a thriving ecosystem supported by chemosynthesis in a region that is completely dark and has extremely cold conditions, essentially making it impossible to support life. A unique food web has formed in the region, with bacteria feeding on methane and sulfide as energy sources. The "Freya mounds" are made up of frozen methane, other gases, and crude oil and are shaped like a cone. They release massive gas flares, plumes of methane-rich bubbles that rise over 3,300 metres high. The researchers used a remotely operated vehicle named Aurora to find a whole new world where these six-metre-wide conical mounds reside. Also Read: World's deepest blue hole remained a secret until 2021 because it is invisible from space “Forests” of shrimp, snails, and amphipods were found The ROV captured images of over 20 species living in this oasis, with a dense population of Sclerolinum tube worms, caridean red shrimp, snails, and amphipods present. The expedition took place in May 2024 and also led them to uncover chemical "fingerprints" that reveal the hydrocarbons (methane, propane, and butane) leaking from the seafloor originate from source rock dating back to the Miocene age, millions of years ago. This discovery alters the understanding of global carbon cycling, systems that play a critical role in how the greenhouse gas methane is stored and released from the seabed. The gas mixture also includes ethane, propane, and butane, suggesting that they are coming from deep in the Earth's crust. Deep-sea mining Norway opened this Arctic region for seabed mineral exploration in early 2024. Following pressure from the public, it paused issuing new mining licenses and has suspended public funding for further seabed mineral mapping until at least the end of 2029. This discovery proves that there is a lot humans still don't know about seafloors. It is crucial to know about them before we go digging them up, something that can have grave consequences.

<p>An unknown world has been found 4,000 meters beneath the Arctic Ocean, below the Molloy Ridge in the Greenland Sea. The Freya mounds host unique life forms like tube worms and shrimp, fueled by ancient methane. This discovery sparks debate about the implications of deep-sea mining.</p>

Scientists just found 'deep-sea oasis' in an Arctic region thought to be barren

<p>An underwater sinkhole off the southeastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is much deeper than previously thought. Scientists have also detected strange conditions at a certain depth, which hints at the presence of tunnels and caves. Taam Ja' Blue Hole (TJBH) was discovered in 2021 and goes 1,380 feet deep below sea level, as per new analysis. Earlier estimates had placed this figure at 900 feet, meaning it is an additional 480 feet deep. This also puts it ahead of the Sansha Yongle Blue Hole, or the Dragon Hole, in the South China Sea, as the one in Mexico is 390 feet deeper than it. Scientists stated in a study published in 2024 that it is the deepest known blue hole on Earth, and "its bottom is still not reached." For the analysis, the researchers used a special probe that can read water properties to measure depth, temperature and conductivity. The data was transmitted in real time, and proved that Taam Ja' Blue Hole is deeper than expected, and one whose bottom is yet to be reached.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The blue hole also has different layers of water, with the most striking one present at 1,312 feet. Under this region, the temperature and salinity conditions are similar to those observed in the Caribbean Sea and nearby coastal reef lagoons. The authors think that this could be because of a hidden network of tunnels and caves that possibly connects the blue hole to the ocean.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/nasa-saw-something-bizarre-happening-88kms-above-earth-from-space-what-was-it-1767858927469"><strong>NASA saw something bizarre happening 88kms above Earth from space. What was it?</strong></a></p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/30-foot-wide-sinkhole-opens-up-in-melbourne-near-26bn-highway-tunnel-project-1767673155361"><strong>30-foot-wide sinkhole opens up in Melbourne near $26bn highway tunnel project</strong></a></p><h2><strong>An ocean anomaly invisible from space</strong></h2><p>Another fascinating information about the Taam Ja' Blue Hole in Mexico is that even though the world's oceans are mapped from space, this hole remained a secret until 2021. It was never seen by the satellites and remains practically invisible from above. Scientists learned about it in 2021 when local fishermen who knew about it told them. Its depth meant that their probe could not reach the bottom, and they had to stop because their CTD profiler ran out of cable at 1,380 feet. This means the hole could go as deep as the "Twilight Zone."</p><h2><strong>What are blue holes?</strong></h2><p><br>These structures in the oceans present a bizarre image. They look intriguing and are still a mystery to humans. What goes on at the bottom of the hole is a secret, as scientists find it hard to reach the bottom of these pits. Blue holes are nothing but sinkholes, similar to those that form on Earth. As ground caves in on land, it also does in the ocean. Their name carries the word "blue" because they appear darker than the rest of the water around them. According to NOAA Ocean Exploration, these holes are not empty and are home to various kinds of plants and animals. They are all different from each other, but scientists haven't had much success in digging deep since they aren't easily accessible. Most of them start several hundred feet below the surface, and aren't as wide. Some of these blue holes have such narrow openings that most probes cannot enter them.</p>

A blue hole in the sea near Mexico is so deep that humans have yet to reach its bottom. It also has certain conditions that scientists think could be because of the presence of certain tunnels and caves connecting the hole to the ocean. But what are blue holes? 

An underwater sinkhole off the southeastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is much deeper than previously thought. Scientists have also detected strange conditions at a certain depth, which hints at the presence of tunnels and caves. Taam Ja' Blue Hole (TJBH) was discovered in 2021 and goes 1,380 feet deep below sea level, as per new analysis. Earlier estimates had placed this figure at 900 feet, meaning it is an additional 480 feet deep. This also puts it ahead of the Sansha Yongle Blue Hole, or the Dragon Hole, in the South China Sea, as the one in Mexico is 390 feet deeper than it. Scientists stated in a study published in 2024 that it is the deepest known blue hole on Earth, and "its bottom is still not reached." For the analysis, the researchers used a special probe that can read water properties to measure depth, temperature and conductivity. The data was transmitted in real time, and proved that Taam Ja' Blue Hole is deeper than expected, and one whose bottom is yet to be reached. The blue hole also has different layers of water, with the most striking one present at 1,312 feet. Under this region, the temperature and salinity conditions are similar to those observed in the Caribbean Sea and nearby coastal reef lagoons. The authors think that this could be because of a hidden network of tunnels and caves that possibly connects the blue hole to the ocean. Also Read: NASA saw something bizarre happening 88kms above Earth from space. What was it? Also Read: 30-foot-wide sinkhole opens up in Melbourne near $26bn highway tunnel project An ocean anomaly invisible from space Another fascinating information about the Taam Ja' Blue Hole in Mexico is that even though the world's oceans are mapped from space, this hole remained a secret until 2021. It was never seen by the satellites and remains practically invisible from above. Scientists learned about it in 2021 when local fishermen who knew about it told them. Its depth meant that their probe could not reach the bottom, and they had to stop because their CTD profiler ran out of cable at 1,380 feet. This means the hole could go as deep as the "Twilight Zone." What are blue holes? These structures in the oceans present a bizarre image. They look intriguing and are still a mystery to humans. What goes on at the bottom of the hole is a secret, as scientists find it hard to reach the bottom of these pits. Blue holes are nothing but sinkholes, similar to those that form on Earth. As ground caves in on land, it also does in the ocean. Their name carries the word "blue" because they appear darker than the rest of the water around them. According to NOAA Ocean Exploration, these holes are not empty and are home to various kinds of plants and animals. They are all different from each other, but scientists haven't had much success in digging deep since they aren't easily accessible. Most of them start several hundred feet below the surface, and aren't as wide. Some of these blue holes have such narrow openings that most probes cannot enter them.

<p>A blue hole in the sea near Mexico is so deep that humans have yet to reach its bottom. It also has certain conditions that scientists think could be because of the presence of certain tunnels and caves connecting the hole to the ocean. But what are blue holes?&nbsp;</p>

World's deepest blue hole remained a secret until 2021 because it is invisible from space

<p>Scientists studying whales, wild humpback, sperm and fin whales in northern Norway, have registered a double win. They have identified a deadly whale virus, known as cetacean morbillivirus, circulating above the Arctic Circle, by just studying their exhaled breath, also known as "blow". This is a breakthrough in non-invasive health monitoring methods for these creatures in Arctic regions. This was done using drones, and scientists say such methods can help detect the virus early, as it has been linked to several mass strandings of whales and dolphins worldwide. &nbsp;King's College London and The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in the UK were part of the study, and they published their findings in BMC Veterinary Research.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Consumer drones equipped with sterile Petri dishes hovered over whale blowholes to capture respiratory droplets between 2016 and 2025. The samples were taken from humpback, sperm, and fin whales across the Northeast Atlantic, including northern Norway, Iceland, and Cape Verde. Along with blow samples, skin biopsies, and an organ sample were screened for infectious agents in the lab. "Drone blow sampling is a game-changer. It allows us to monitor pathogens in live whales without stress or harm, providing critical insights into diseases in rapidly changing Arctic ecosystems," co-author of the study, Professor Terry Dawson of the Department of Geography, King's College London, said.</p><h2><strong>Virus is linked to many mass mortality events</strong></h2><p>They found cetacean morbillivirus in humpback whale groups in northern Norway, a sperm whale, and a stranded pilot whale. A strain of this virus was first identified in dolphins. The highly pathogenic virus infecting whales, dolphins and porpoises, researchers said. Since its discovery in 1987, the virus has triggered multiple mass mortality events in cetacean populations. It causes respiratory issues in the animals, along with neurological and immune damage.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Scientists are worried that the virus can spread during feeding interactions in winter when humans and birds come in contact with the whales. They also found herpesviruses in the whales, but no traces of avian influenza virus or the bacteria Brucella were detected. Helena Costa, lead author at Nord University, said, "Going forward, the priority is to continue using these methods for long-term surveillance."</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Scientists have detected a deadly whale virus, known as cetacean morbillivirus, in the animals in Norway using a method where they simply collected samples from whale blow, the droplets from their breath. 

Scientists studying whales, wild humpback, sperm and fin whales in northern Norway, have registered a double win. They have identified a deadly whale virus, known as cetacean morbillivirus, circulating above the Arctic Circle, by just studying their exhaled breath, also known as "blow". This is a breakthrough in non-invasive health monitoring methods for these creatures in Arctic regions. This was done using drones, and scientists say such methods can help detect the virus early, as it has been linked to several mass strandings of whales and dolphins worldwide. King's College London and The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in the UK were part of the study, and they published their findings in BMC Veterinary Research. Consumer drones equipped with sterile Petri dishes hovered over whale blowholes to capture respiratory droplets between 2016 and 2025. The samples were taken from humpback, sperm, and fin whales across the Northeast Atlantic, including northern Norway, Iceland, and Cape Verde. Along with blow samples, skin biopsies, and an organ sample were screened for infectious agents in the lab. "Drone blow sampling is a game-changer. It allows us to monitor pathogens in live whales without stress or harm, providing critical insights into diseases in rapidly changing Arctic ecosystems," co-author of the study, Professor Terry Dawson of the Department of Geography, King's College London, said. Virus is linked to many mass mortality events They found cetacean morbillivirus in humpback whale groups in northern Norway, a sperm whale, and a stranded pilot whale. A strain of this virus was first identified in dolphins. The highly pathogenic virus infecting whales, dolphins and porpoises, researchers said. Since its discovery in 1987, the virus has triggered multiple mass mortality events in cetacean populations. It causes respiratory issues in the animals, along with neurological and immune damage. Scientists are worried that the virus can spread during feeding interactions in winter when humans and birds come in contact with the whales. They also found herpesviruses in the whales, but no traces of avian influenza virus or the bacteria Brucella were detected. Helena Costa, lead author at Nord University, said, "Going forward, the priority is to continue using these methods for long-term surveillance."

<p>Scientists have detected a deadly whale virus, known as cetacean morbillivirus, in the animals in Norway using a method where they simply collected samples from whale blow, the droplets from their breath.&nbsp;</p>

Scientists identify deadly whale virus linked to mass strandings from just their breath

<p>Scientists have found a new species of worm in the Great Salt Lake in Utah, and they believe this creature only resides in this body of water and is not anywhere else in the world. This is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, and the species is endemic to it, according to a study. Researchers from the University of Utah say that it is a nematode, or roundworm, and has been named Diplolaimelloides woaabi. The worm was given this name by Shoshone elders, as the lake is a part of their ancestral lands. The new species is believed to play an important role in the ecology of the lake, just like other nematodes in different ecosystems, according to the researchers. The presence of this worm in the Utah lake could also be a bioindicator of environmental change in the region.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Nematodes are found in abundance in the world and reside in all kinds of ecological systems. From oceans to gardens, these worms are found in many places. There are more than 250,000 known species of nematodes, and 90 per cent of all animals found on the ocean floor are nematodes. The existence of this new species in the lake remained a secret until 2022. Lead author of the study, Julie Jung, set out on an expedition and collected the worms from microbialites, stony mounds formed by algae and microbes on the lakebed.</p><h2><strong>The Utah lake is extremely saline</strong></h2><p>Jung, a researcher at Weber State University, said they were almost sure that it was a new species of nematode from the beginning. However, it took "three years of additional work to taxonomically confirm that suspicion." The Utah lake has a hostile hypersaline environment and was home to only two multicellular animals till the discovery of these nematodes. Brine shrimp and brine flies are the other two creatures found in the Great Salt Lake.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Scientists also tried to figure out how these worms reached the lake. One possibility is that their ancestors were stranded here millions of years ago. Co-author of the study, Michael Werner, says that northern Utah had a vast freshwater lake 20,000 and 30,000 years ago. “If the nematode has been endemic since 100 million years ago, it has survived through these dramatic shifts in salinity at least once, probably a few times.” Another possibility is that these worms were carried by migratory birds from saline lakes in South America.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

Scientists have discovered only the third multicellular animal in the Great Salt Lake in Utah. This creature should not exist here, so how did it reach this lake? It took the researchers three years to confirm it was a new species of a previously known animal. 

Scientists have found a new species of worm in the Great Salt Lake in Utah, and they believe this creature only resides in this body of water and is not anywhere else in the world. This is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, and the species is endemic to it, according to a study. Researchers from the University of Utah say that it is a nematode, or roundworm, and has been named Diplolaimelloides woaabi. The worm was given this name by Shoshone elders, as the lake is a part of their ancestral lands. The new species is believed to play an important role in the ecology of the lake, just like other nematodes in different ecosystems, according to the researchers. The presence of this worm in the Utah lake could also be a bioindicator of environmental change in the region. Nematodes are found in abundance in the world and reside in all kinds of ecological systems. From oceans to gardens, these worms are found in many places. There are more than 250,000 known species of nematodes, and 90 per cent of all animals found on the ocean floor are nematodes. The existence of this new species in the lake remained a secret until 2022. Lead author of the study, Julie Jung, set out on an expedition and collected the worms from microbialites, stony mounds formed by algae and microbes on the lakebed. The Utah lake is extremely saline Jung, a researcher at Weber State University, said they were almost sure that it was a new species of nematode from the beginning. However, it took "three years of additional work to taxonomically confirm that suspicion." The Utah lake has a hostile hypersaline environment and was home to only two multicellular animals till the discovery of these nematodes. Brine shrimp and brine flies are the other two creatures found in the Great Salt Lake. Scientists also tried to figure out how these worms reached the lake. One possibility is that their ancestors were stranded here millions of years ago. Co-author of the study, Michael Werner, says that northern Utah had a vast freshwater lake 20,000 and 30,000 years ago. “If the nematode has been endemic since 100 million years ago, it has survived through these dramatic shifts in salinity at least once, probably a few times.” Another possibility is that these worms were carried by migratory birds from saline lakes in South America.

<p>Scientists have discovered only the third multicellular animal in the Great Salt Lake in Utah. This creature should not exist here, so how did it reach this lake? It took the researchers three years to confirm it was a new species of a previously known animal.&nbsp;</p>

Utah lake houses a creature that should not be here. It is not found anywhere else on Earth

<p>Once upon a time, Earth was a hot planet with magma flowing in one vast ocean. When our home was born 4.6 billion years ago, space was not the kindest place. The chaotic environment and the constant bombardment caused the planet’s surface and interior to remain in a near-constant molten state. So if magma was spread everywhere, where was water? According to a study, Earth was hiding it all deep within a mineral in the mantle. This was a time when the flowing magma turned the planet into a blazing furnace. &nbsp;Over millions of years, Earth transitioned from being a hot piece of cosmic body in a molten state to a cool and calm solid planet. The oceans were filled with water, which was hiding somewhere on the planet.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Professor Zhixue Du from the Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (GIGCAS) tried to decode this mystery of the hiding place of Earth's water. According to the researchers on his team, large quantities of water were effectively "locked away" deep inside Earth’s mantle. A mineral found abundantly in the mantle acted like a microscopic "water container" as the planet solidified. Their findings have been published in Science.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/earth-has-a-tail-flowing-for-millions-of-kilometres-into-space-on-its-dark-side-1765431481520"><strong>Earth has a tail, flowing for millions of kilometres into space on its dark side</strong></a></p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/catastrophe-in-2-8-days-scientists-say-earth-at-risk-of-disastrous-chain-reaction-in-space-1765868167625"><strong>Catastrophe in 2.8 days: Scientists say Earth at risk of disastrous chain reaction in space</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Simulation revealed something new about the water-absorbing mineral</strong></h2><p>This water reservoir is what helped Earth transform from a fiery planet into the habitable world we know today. &nbsp;The team set out to test a previous theory, according to which bridgmanite had limited water storage capacity in low-temperature conditions. They built a diamond anvil cell experimental setup equipped with laser heating and high-temperature imaging to understand the extreme conditions at depths exceeding 660 kilometres, and detect water signals in bridgmanite samples. They gradually raised temperatures to approximately 4,100 degrees Celsius, which helped them learn how it affects the ability of minerals to pull in water.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This simulation revealed that bridgmanite’s “water-locking” capacity increased with rising temperature. This means that during Earth’s hottest “magma ocean” phase, it had changed to retain a lot more water. After the magma ocean solidified, the lower mantle became the largest water reservoir in the solid mantle. Gradually, this water reached the surface through magmatic activity.</p>

Earth was once a fireball with magma flowing in one giant ocean. But, even at this time, it had water. However, it was not present on the surface, but hid somewhere deep inside the planet. What could hold so much water? Scientists have now revealed.

Once upon a time, Earth was a hot planet with magma flowing in one vast ocean. When our home was born 4.6 billion years ago, space was not the kindest place. The chaotic environment and the constant bombardment caused the planet’s surface and interior to remain in a near-constant molten state. So if magma was spread everywhere, where was water? According to a study, Earth was hiding it all deep within a mineral in the mantle. This was a time when the flowing magma turned the planet into a blazing furnace. Over millions of years, Earth transitioned from being a hot piece of cosmic body in a molten state to a cool and calm solid planet. The oceans were filled with water, which was hiding somewhere on the planet. Professor Zhixue Du from the Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (GIGCAS) tried to decode this mystery of the hiding place of Earth's water. According to the researchers on his team, large quantities of water were effectively "locked away" deep inside Earth’s mantle. A mineral found abundantly in the mantle acted like a microscopic "water container" as the planet solidified. Their findings have been published in Science. Also Read: Earth has a tail, flowing for millions of kilometres into space on its dark side Also Read: Catastrophe in 2.8 days: Scientists say Earth at risk of disastrous chain reaction in space Simulation revealed something new about the water-absorbing mineral This water reservoir is what helped Earth transform from a fiery planet into the habitable world we know today. The team set out to test a previous theory, according to which bridgmanite had limited water storage capacity in low-temperature conditions. They built a diamond anvil cell experimental setup equipped with laser heating and high-temperature imaging to understand the extreme conditions at depths exceeding 660 kilometres, and detect water signals in bridgmanite samples. They gradually raised temperatures to approximately 4,100 degrees Celsius, which helped them learn how it affects the ability of minerals to pull in water. This simulation revealed that bridgmanite’s “water-locking” capacity increased with rising temperature. This means that during Earth’s hottest “magma ocean” phase, it had changed to retain a lot more water. After the magma ocean solidified, the lower mantle became the largest water reservoir in the solid mantle. Gradually, this water reached the surface through magmatic activity.

<p>Earth was once a fireball with magma flowing in one giant ocean. But, even at this time, it had water. However, it was not present on the surface, but hid somewhere deep inside the planet. What could hold so much water? Scientists have now revealed.</p>

Scientists reveal the hiding place of all the water on Earth 4.6 billion years ago

<p>Before one mystery could be solved about the Bermuda Triangle, another one has cropped up. Scientists have found a 20-kilometre-thick rock layer below the oceanic crust under Bermuda. Although this is not the only such layer on Earth, what's odd is that none is as thick as this one. Researchers say that typically, after the bottom of the ocean crust comes the mantle. But in Bermuda, there is this layer that should not exist. This other layer that is "emplaced beneath the crust, within the tectonic plate that Bermuda sits on," study lead author William Frazer, a seismologist at Carnegie Science in Washington, DC, said. The discovery was made using recordings of large earthquakes around the world from a seismic station on Bermuda. They were able to peer down 50 km below Bermuda and examine the seismic waves. This is when they found this thick layer of rock.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Bermuda is infamous for the disappearance of ships and planes, when seen in totality as a triangle including Florida and Puerto Rico. But the other mystery about Bermuda is the oceanic swell that typically forms because of volcanic activity. However, the last volcanic eruption here was 31 million years ago, leaving scientists puzzled about what could have possibly formed this uplift. Oceanic swell is the point where the ocean crust is higher than its surroundings. The authors suggest that, even though there has been no recent eruption, the last one injected mantle rock into the crust. This is like a raft that has raised the ocean floor by about 1,640 feet, Live Science reported.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/at-16-404-feet-tentacles-on-a-tusked-marine-animal-stunned-scientists-turns-out-it-was-1760698518717"><strong>At 16,404 feet, tentacles on a tusked marine animal stunned scientists. Turns out, it was…</strong></a></p><h2><strong>No volcanic eruption, and yet a swell in Bermuda</strong></h2><p>Typically, islands like Hawaii are formed because of mantle hotspots where hot material rises, leading to an eruption. The point where the hotspot and the crust come together is pushed upwards. The crust later moves away from that hotspot due to tectonic activity, causing the swell to go down. But this hasn't happened in Bermuda despite the last volcanic eruption on record occurring 31 million years ago. So what's really going on in the mantle under Bermuda is somewhat of a mystery. Frazer has started work on examining other islands to see if they have any similar layers.</p>

Under Bermuda lies another mystery, a thick layer that is several kilometres wide with unclear origins. Scientists say this could be because of the mantle being injected into the oceanic crust. However, why this happened and what's really going on under there remains unknown.

Before one mystery could be solved about the Bermuda Triangle, another one has cropped up. Scientists have found a 20-kilometre-thick rock layer below the oceanic crust under Bermuda. Although this is not the only such layer on Earth, what's odd is that none is as thick as this one. Researchers say that typically, after the bottom of the ocean crust comes the mantle. But in Bermuda, there is this layer that should not exist. This other layer that is "emplaced beneath the crust, within the tectonic plate that Bermuda sits on," study lead author William Frazer, a seismologist at Carnegie Science in Washington, DC, said. The discovery was made using recordings of large earthquakes around the world from a seismic station on Bermuda. They were able to peer down 50 km below Bermuda and examine the seismic waves. This is when they found this thick layer of rock. Bermuda is infamous for the disappearance of ships and planes, when seen in totality as a triangle including Florida and Puerto Rico. But the other mystery about Bermuda is the oceanic swell that typically forms because of volcanic activity. However, the last volcanic eruption here was 31 million years ago, leaving scientists puzzled about what could have possibly formed this uplift. Oceanic swell is the point where the ocean crust is higher than its surroundings. The authors suggest that, even though there has been no recent eruption, the last one injected mantle rock into the crust. This is like a raft that has raised the ocean floor by about 1,640 feet, Live Science reported. Also Read: At 16,404 feet, tentacles on a tusked marine animal stunned scientists. Turns out, it was… No volcanic eruption, and yet a swell in Bermuda Typically, islands like Hawaii are formed because of mantle hotspots where hot material rises, leading to an eruption. The point where the hotspot and the crust come together is pushed upwards. The crust later moves away from that hotspot due to tectonic activity, causing the swell to go down. But this hasn't happened in Bermuda despite the last volcanic eruption on record occurring 31 million years ago. So what's really going on in the mantle under Bermuda is somewhat of a mystery. Frazer has started work on examining other islands to see if they have any similar layers.

<p>Under Bermuda lies another mystery, a thick layer that is several kilometres wide with unclear origins. Scientists say this could be because of the mantle being injected into the oceanic crust. However, why this happened and what's really going on under there remains unknown.</p>

New Bermuda anomaly? Scientists baffled to see secret structure birthed by 31mn-year-old event

The ocean’s deepest regions hide some of the most bizarre and fearsome life forms on Earth. From giant carnivorous predators to strange, glowing creatures that survive in total darkness, the abyss is full of mysteries. This video explores the incredible adaptations that allow these creatures to thrive in extreme pressure, freezing temperatures, and complete darkness, revealing a hidden world few have ever seen.


The Death Ball Sponge: Carnivorous Predator Found In Ocean Abyss 

<p>A mesmerising video of the world's largest, longest, and heaviest known jellyfish species has been captured by an underwater videographer. John Roney shared the footage of a lion’s mane jellyfish that he filmed in the Salish Sea. He wrote in his Instagram post that he was out hoping to merely get some videos of squids and jellyfish. A few minutes into the dive, he came across a long, thin tentacle trailing overhead. He could not see its end and so started following it. He went on for over a minute and then came across a giant Lion’s Mane Jellyfish. These sea creatures are monstrous in size. The largest one recorded to date had a bell with a diameter of 7 feet and tentacles extending up to 120 feet, Roney shared.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The video shows the vivid colours of the jellyfish, leaving viewers stunned with its sheer size and appearance. You can see the jellyfish's pale, translucent bell flowing in the waters, with orange and purple colours below it. The close-up shots show the tentacles in detail, offering an incredible insight into the movement of the lion’s mane jellyfish.</p>

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_OLrGIvcCb/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by John Roney (@roneydives)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>About lion's mane jellyfish</strong></h2><p>The Salish Sea is an inland sea on North America’s west coast, connected to the Pacific Ocean. The footage was taken after sunset. Roney explained how these creatures use their tentacles to trap other jellyfish and fish for food. &nbsp;"They use their stinging tentacles to ensnare, pull in, and eat prey such as fish, zooplankton, and other jellyfish,” Roney added. “They also have these deep, vibrant orange, purple and crimson colours that I love to film," he wrote. "But fair warning—this is a jellyfish you definitely don’t want to touch."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As Roney said in his post, the largest lion's mane jellyfish specimen measures 120 feet long, according to the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. According to a report by the Guinness World Records they weigh an estimated 1 tonne or more.</p>

A lion’s mane jellyfish with a huge bell and tentacles measuring several feet was filmed by an underwater videographer in the Salish Sea. The video shows vivid colours and the tentacles flowing in stunning movement.

A mesmerising video of the world's largest, longest, and heaviest known jellyfish species has been captured by an underwater videographer. John Roney shared the footage of a lion’s mane jellyfish that he filmed in the Salish Sea. He wrote in his Instagram post that he was out hoping to merely get some videos of squids and jellyfish. A few minutes into the dive, he came across a long, thin tentacle trailing overhead. He could not see its end and so started following it. He went on for over a minute and then came across a giant Lion’s Mane Jellyfish. These sea creatures are monstrous in size. The largest one recorded to date had a bell with a diameter of 7 feet and tentacles extending up to 120 feet, Roney shared. The video shows the vivid colours of the jellyfish, leaving viewers stunned with its sheer size and appearance. You can see the jellyfish's pale, translucent bell flowing in the waters, with orange and purple colours below it. The close-up shots show the tentacles in detail, offering an incredible insight into the movement of the lion’s mane jellyfish.

<p>A lion’s mane jellyfish with a huge bell and tentacles measuring several feet was filmed by an underwater videographer in the Salish Sea. The video shows vivid colours and the tentacles flowing in stunning movement.</p>

World's largest jellyfish measuring over 100 feet captured in stunning video

<p>A man snorkelling off the coast of Israel in April was attacked and eaten by a shark species that has never been documented harming humans, according to a research report. This shocking change in behaviour has been attributed to artificial feeding that tourists and boat operators indulge in. The researchers detailed that a 40-year-old male tourist was swimming and filming about 100m from shore in Hadera when a group of sharks surrounded him. According to witnesses, one of them lunged at his&nbsp;GoPro. The man shouted for help, saying that they were biting him. He disappeared soon after, with only a few shark fins and bloody red water visible. Rescue boats reached the site to look for the man, but he was nowhere to be found. The next day, the search for him only yielded a few human remains.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The researchers wrote that the remains were only enough to let forensic experts ascertain the victim’s identity. They also "led to the conclusion that he had been devoured by ‘several’ sharks during this incident." The incident has shocked scientists who say it happened because of a feeding frenzy. This is the first known instance of a dusky shark fatally attacking a diver, the report, published in the journal Ethology, states.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ghostly-silence-from-blue-whales-an-ominous-sign-for-the-world-scientists-warn-1753863195541"><strong>Ghostly silence from blue whales is an ominous sign for the world</strong></a></p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/26-dead-orcas-wash-ashore-in-argentina-as-scientists-struggle-to-pinpoint-what-killed-them-1760615302176"><strong>26 dead orcas wash ashore in Argentina as scientists struggle to pinpoint what killed them</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Scientists reveal why the sharks turned deadly and killed a man</strong></h2><p>The incident has shocked scientists as they hunt for answers for this sudden change in behaviour of the dusky shark. According to the research, human activity and animal instinct played a major role in the sharks' attacking the man. Dusky sharks can grow up to 10ft in length, and are shy of people. But the warming waters of the sea off Israel’s Hadera have been attracting sharks in large numbers. Besides, human feeding of sharks, dumping of food waste and local boat operators throwing fish scraps have ensured that the sharks remain around, even in winter.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Scientists say the new behavioural pattern in these sharks, called “begging”, has these creatures rushing straight towards divers in search of food. The limited food creates a competitive environment, leading to a feeding frenzy. “The competition for access to the food resource overrides the species’ usual behaviour, including the intrinsic non-instinctive nature of the (human) prey,” the researchers wrote. To ensure this never happens again, there is a need to "eliminate the begging behaviour in sharks," the researchers wrote, adding that "this can only be achieved by establishing and enforcing a complete and total ban on all artificial feeding of sharks by the public."</p>

A shark species, never known to harm humans, killed and devoured a man off the coast of Israel. Scientists are stunned to see this sudden change in their behaviour. Food waste and artificial feeding have been blamed for the sharks becoming violent.

A man snorkelling off the coast of Israel in April was attacked and eaten by a shark species that has never been documented harming humans, according to a research report. This shocking change in behaviour has been attributed to artificial feeding that tourists and boat operators indulge in. The researchers detailed that a 40-year-old male tourist was swimming and filming about 100m from shore in Hadera when a group of sharks surrounded him. According to witnesses, one of them lunged at his GoPro. The man shouted for help, saying that they were biting him. He disappeared soon after, with only a few shark fins and bloody red water visible. Rescue boats reached the site to look for the man, but he was nowhere to be found. The next day, the search for him only yielded a few human remains. The researchers wrote that the remains were only enough to let forensic experts ascertain the victim’s identity. They also "led to the conclusion that he had been devoured by ‘several’ sharks during this incident." The incident has shocked scientists who say it happened because of a feeding frenzy. This is the first known instance of a dusky shark fatally attacking a diver, the report, published in the journal Ethology, states. Also Read: Ghostly silence from blue whales is an ominous sign for the world Also Read: 26 dead orcas wash ashore in Argentina as scientists struggle to pinpoint what killed them Scientists reveal why the sharks turned deadly and killed a man The incident has shocked scientists as they hunt for answers for this sudden change in behaviour of the dusky shark. According to the research, human activity and animal instinct played a major role in the sharks' attacking the man. Dusky sharks can grow up to 10ft in length, and are shy of people. But the warming waters of the sea off Israel’s Hadera have been attracting sharks in large numbers. Besides, human feeding of sharks, dumping of food waste and local boat operators throwing fish scraps have ensured that the sharks remain around, even in winter. Scientists say the new behavioural pattern in these sharks, called “begging”, has these creatures rushing straight towards divers in search of food. The limited food creates a competitive environment, leading to a feeding frenzy. “The competition for access to the food resource overrides the species’ usual behaviour, including the intrinsic non-instinctive nature of the (human) prey,” the researchers wrote. To ensure this never happens again, there is a need to "eliminate the begging behaviour in sharks," the researchers wrote, adding that "this can only be achieved by establishing and enforcing a complete and total ban on all artificial feeding of sharks by the public."

<p>A shark species, never known to harm humans, killed and devoured a man off the coast of Israel. Scientists are stunned to see this sudden change in their behaviour. Food waste and artificial feeding have been blamed for the sharks becoming violent.</p>

Peaceful sea creatures turn murderous, devour snorkeler in Israel. Shocked scientists blame...

<p>A team of scientists got together to identify 14 new marine creatures and came across something they had never seen before. During the analysis, they found a tusk shell, or tooth shell, giving a ride to a sea anemone 5,000 metres (16,404 feet) below the surface. This is the first time they have observed anything like this has been observed in the mollusc genus Laevidentalium. A tusk shell is a type of marine mollusc that uses a long, tapering outer structure to protect itself. Scientists say a sea anemone is hitching a ride on the anterior (concave) side of the tusk shell, BBC Wildlife reported. The discovery was published in the Biodiversity Data Journal. Besides the tusk shell and the sea anemone, scientists also identified 13 other marine worms, molluscs and crustaceans from across the world.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The researchers were analysing a large group of marine species as part of the Ocean Species Discoveries project, which aims to officially identify a new species in a shorter time span. One of the discoveries includes a new species of mollusc known as Veleropilina gretchenae that lives at a depth of 6,465 metres (21,210 feet). The creature inhabits the Aleutian Trench, a deep canyon inside the ocean along the southern coastline of Alaska and the Aleutian Islands. However, the most weird creature was found in the Australian intertidal zone with the female's back covered with weird protrusions that resembled popcorn. It was identified as a species of parasitic isopod (Zeaione everta). Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/26-dead-orcas-wash-ashore-in-argentina-as-scientists-struggle-to-pinpoint-what-killed-them-1760615302176"><strong>26 dead orcas wash ashore in Argentina as scientists struggle to pinpoint what killed them</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Other marine discoveries made by the team</strong></h2><p>Another discovery includes a new species of carnivorous bivalve (Myonera aleutiana) at a depth of between 5,170–5,280 metres. They studied the creature in detail using a non-invasive micro-CT scanning technique. Over 2,000 detailed images of the bivalve's internal tissues and soft-body parts were captured, only the second time in history. In the Galápagos Rift hydrothermal vent in the Pacific Ocean, they found a shrimp-like crustacean at a depth of 2,602 metres. It was identified as a new species of amphipod.</p>

A project to identify new marine species led scientists to find a creature taking a ride through the ocean on top of a mollusc. This was never seen before, proving that the ocean is still hiding several secrets.

A team of scientists got together to identify 14 new marine creatures and came across something they had never seen before. During the analysis, they found a tusk shell, or tooth shell, giving a ride to a sea anemone 5,000 metres (16,404 feet) below the surface. This is the first time they have observed anything like this has been observed in the mollusc genus Laevidentalium. A tusk shell is a type of marine mollusc that uses a long, tapering outer structure to protect itself. Scientists say a sea anemone is hitching a ride on the anterior (concave) side of the tusk shell, BBC Wildlife reported. The discovery was published in the Biodiversity Data Journal. Besides the tusk shell and the sea anemone, scientists also identified 13 other marine worms, molluscs and crustaceans from across the world. The researchers were analysing a large group of marine species as part of the Ocean Species Discoveries project, which aims to officially identify a new species in a shorter time span. One of the discoveries includes a new species of mollusc known as Veleropilina gretchenae that lives at a depth of 6,465 metres (21,210 feet). The creature inhabits the Aleutian Trench, a deep canyon inside the ocean along the southern coastline of Alaska and the Aleutian Islands. However, the most weird creature was found in the Australian intertidal zone with the female's back covered with weird protrusions that resembled popcorn. It was identified as a species of parasitic isopod (Zeaione everta). Also Read: 26 dead orcas wash ashore in Argentina as scientists struggle to pinpoint what killed them Other marine discoveries made by the team Another discovery includes a new species of carnivorous bivalve (Myonera aleutiana) at a depth of between 5,170–5,280 metres. They studied the creature in detail using a non-invasive micro-CT scanning technique. Over 2,000 detailed images of the bivalve's internal tissues and soft-body parts were captured, only the second time in history. In the Galápagos Rift hydrothermal vent in the Pacific Ocean, they found a shrimp-like crustacean at a depth of 2,602 metres. It was identified as a new species of amphipod.

<p>A project to identify new marine species led scientists to find a creature taking a ride through the ocean on top of a mollusc. This was never seen before, proving that the ocean is still hiding several secrets.</p>

At 16,404 feet, tentacles on a tusked marine animal stunned scientists. Turns out, it was...

Since The War In Ukraine Began, We’ve Reported Extensively On The Underwater Fibre-Optic Cables That Carry 99% Of The World’s Internet Traffic. These Cables Are Crucial To Global Connectivity And Are Increasingly Seen As Strategic Assets In Cyber Warfare And Espionage. But Now, A Group Of U.S. Scientists Is Using These Very Cables As Giant Ocean Microphones — To Listen To Endangered Orcas And Protect Marine Life. Can This Innovation Save The Orcas?

Can Underwater Fibre Cables Save Orcas?

<p>A disturbing scene was witnessed in Argentina this week when 26 orca killer whales washed up dead on a beach in the southern part of the country. The mass stranding is being investigated and is only the third such occurrence in recorded history globally. This was also the first time that multiple orcas were stranded on the Atlantic coast of the Tierra del Fuego Province. The grim discovery was made in San Sebastián Bay on the southern tip of Argentina. Someone initially spotted two dead orcas and alerted the National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) and the Southern Center for Scientific Investigation (CADIC). When the researchers reached the site, they started investigating the whales. Soon they learned that there were not two, but 26 orcas OF the same ecotype D family that had washed up dead.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The other whales were in nooks and crannies that were hard to access. Scientists from both organisations said they had never seen such a mass stranding in over 10 years. CONICET spokesperson Mónica Torres said: “What really surprised us in this case was the number of specimens in total. “We’ve been monitoring the bay and entire Atlantic coast of Tierra del Fuego all year round for over 10 years, and we’ve never recorded so many stranded animals before." Upon analysis, they did not find any injury marks on the killer whales. This meant that they were not struck by any ship, nor were they caught in fishing nets. Decomposition levels showed that all of them became stranded at the same time.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dead-dolphins-with-alzheimer-s-brain-washing-ashore-in-florida-carry-a-warning-for-humans-1760506168959"><strong>Dead dolphins with 'Alzheimer's brain' washing ashore in Florida carry a warning for humans</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>The largest stranding of dead orcas ever</strong></h2><p>Torres added that these orcas aren't exactly whales, but a species within the orca group. “These in particular are called an ecotype, which is like a species within the orca group that’s not well known. That also caught our attention," she said. The investigation into their deaths will entail cutting them open and checking their organs for signs of internal injuries. She said that the large tidal range of almost 56ft at San Sebastián Bay could have also led to the stranding. “Perhaps animals that enter at high tide or when the tide goes out quickly can become stranded if they are not familiar with the area," she said. The last two incidents of such a mass stranding were recorded in New Zealand when about 17 orcas washed ashore, and in the Strait of Magellan in 2020 when nine dead orcas were discovered.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Dead orcas wash ashore in Argentina: Scientists were shocked to find 26 dead killer whales spread in a wide area in the San Sebastián Bay this week. What killed them is not known. This is the biggest such stranding recorded globally. 

A disturbing scene was witnessed in Argentina this week when 26 orca killer whales washed up dead on a beach in the southern part of the country. The mass stranding is being investigated and is only the third such occurrence in recorded history globally. This was also the first time that multiple orcas were stranded on the Atlantic coast of the Tierra del Fuego Province. The grim discovery was made in San Sebastián Bay on the southern tip of Argentina. Someone initially spotted two dead orcas and alerted the National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) and the Southern Center for Scientific Investigation (CADIC). When the researchers reached the site, they started investigating the whales. Soon they learned that there were not two, but 26 orcas OF the same ecotype D family that had washed up dead. The other whales were in nooks and crannies that were hard to access. Scientists from both organisations said they had never seen such a mass stranding in over 10 years. CONICET spokesperson Mónica Torres said: “What really surprised us in this case was the number of specimens in total. “We’ve been monitoring the bay and entire Atlantic coast of Tierra del Fuego all year round for over 10 years, and we’ve never recorded so many stranded animals before." Upon analysis, they did not find any injury marks on the killer whales. This meant that they were not struck by any ship, nor were they caught in fishing nets. Decomposition levels showed that all of them became stranded at the same time. Also Read: Dead dolphins with 'Alzheimer's brain' washing ashore in Florida carry a warning for humans The largest stranding of dead orcas ever Torres added that these orcas aren't exactly whales, but a species within the orca group. “These in particular are called an ecotype, which is like a species within the orca group that’s not well known. That also caught our attention," she said. The investigation into their deaths will entail cutting them open and checking their organs for signs of internal injuries. She said that the large tidal range of almost 56ft at San Sebastián Bay could have also led to the stranding. “Perhaps animals that enter at high tide or when the tide goes out quickly can become stranded if they are not familiar with the area," she said. The last two incidents of such a mass stranding were recorded in New Zealand when about 17 orcas washed ashore, and in the Strait of Magellan in 2020 when nine dead orcas were discovered.

<p>Dead orcas wash ashore in Argentina: Scientists were shocked to find 26 dead killer whales spread in a wide area in the San Sebastián Bay this week. What killed them is not known. This is the biggest such stranding recorded globally.&nbsp;</p>

26 dead orcas wash ashore in Argentina as scientists struggle to pinpoint what killed them

<p>Dolphins washing up on the shores of Florida have a deadly chemical rotting their brains that can have future implications for humans. Scientists have found a toxin known to trigger Alzheimer's-like brain damage in these marine creatures. An analysis of the brains of 20 dolphins that washed up along Florida's Indian River Lagoon revealed high levels of a chemical produced by cyanobacteria. They are nothing but blue-green algae that release compounds that are highly toxic to nerve cells. Studies have linked it to damage in the brain, particularly in regions responsible for memory, thinking and communication. The toxin levels were found to be extremely high during peak algae season.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ghostly-silence-from-blue-whales-an-ominous-sign-for-the-world-scientists-warn-1753863195541"><strong>Ghostly silence from blue whales is an ominous sign for the world</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Dolphins have brains with classic signs of Alzheimer's</strong></h2><p>According to the study, the toxin levels were 2,900 times higher than those found at other times of the year. The chemical released by the algae can lead to impaired brain functioning, with physical scars typical of Alzheimer's. The dolphin brains showed classic signs of Alzheimer's disease, such as sticky protein clumps and tangled fibres, which impact brain function, causing memory loss and confusion. Now, experts are raising an alarm about cyanobacterial blooms and how they can adversely affect human health. Notably, in 2024, Miami-Dade County recorded the highest number of Alzheimer's cases in the country. Following this latest study, scientists believe there is a potential link between human exposure and the harmful toxins released by cyanobacteria.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The algae blooms are common in warm, nutrient-rich waters, consisting of high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. They turn the water bright blue or green and release these toxins into the water. People should beware of entering the water during these seasons. Exposure can cause "misfolded tau proteins, amyloid plaques and tangled fibres that destroy neural connections." The team also released data from past studies that establish a link between these toxins and neurodegenerative disease. "Research involving residents of Guam has shown that people who regularly consume foods containing cyanobacterial toxins are more likely to develop the same brain abnormalities seen in Alzheimer's disease,' the researchers stated in a press release.</p>

Dolphins in Florida washing ashore have high concentrations of a toxin released by algae, also known as cyanobacteria. The brains of these marine creatures have been scarred to such an extent that they resemble the brains of an Alzheimer's patient.

Dolphins washing up on the shores of Florida have a deadly chemical rotting their brains that can have future implications for humans. Scientists have found a toxin known to trigger Alzheimer's-like brain damage in these marine creatures. An analysis of the brains of 20 dolphins that washed up along Florida's Indian River Lagoon revealed high levels of a chemical produced by cyanobacteria. They are nothing but blue-green algae that release compounds that are highly toxic to nerve cells. Studies have linked it to damage in the brain, particularly in regions responsible for memory, thinking and communication. The toxin levels were found to be extremely high during peak algae season. Also Read: Ghostly silence from blue whales is an ominous sign for the world Dolphins have brains with classic signs of Alzheimer's According to the study, the toxin levels were 2,900 times higher than those found at other times of the year. The chemical released by the algae can lead to impaired brain functioning, with physical scars typical of Alzheimer's. The dolphin brains showed classic signs of Alzheimer's disease, such as sticky protein clumps and tangled fibres, which impact brain function, causing memory loss and confusion. Now, experts are raising an alarm about cyanobacterial blooms and how they can adversely affect human health. Notably, in 2024, Miami-Dade County recorded the highest number of Alzheimer's cases in the country. Following this latest study, scientists believe there is a potential link between human exposure and the harmful toxins released by cyanobacteria. The algae blooms are common in warm, nutrient-rich waters, consisting of high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. They turn the water bright blue or green and release these toxins into the water. People should beware of entering the water during these seasons. Exposure can cause "misfolded tau proteins, amyloid plaques and tangled fibres that destroy neural connections." The team also released data from past studies that establish a link between these toxins and neurodegenerative disease. "Research involving residents of Guam has shown that people who regularly consume foods containing cyanobacterial toxins are more likely to develop the same brain abnormalities seen in Alzheimer's disease,' the researchers stated in a press release.

<p>Dolphins in Florida washing ashore have high concentrations of a toxin released by algae, also known as cyanobacteria. The brains of these marine creatures have been scarred to such an extent that they resemble the brains of an Alzheimer's patient.</p>

Dead dolphins with 'Alzheimer's brain' washing ashore in Florida carry a warning for humans

The ocean is home to some precious metals which have never been extracted. However, exploration for future purposes of deep-sea mining is on. Different zones in the seas across the world have varied metals. These are the undersea zones on Earth rich in precious metals.

<p>The ocean is home to some precious metals which have never been extracted. However, exploration for future purposes of deep-sea mining is on. Different zones in the seas across the world have varied metals. These are the undersea zones on Earth rich in precious metals.</p>

Top deep‑sea regions with richest precious metal deposits

Why do sperm whales have such large heads? A study found that they use them ramming devices to gain female attention. Why don't they get injured then? The sperm whale's head contains a sac that prevents fractures.

<p>Why do sperm whales have such large heads? A study found that they use them ramming devices to gain female attention. Why don't they get injured then? The sperm whale's head contains a sac that prevents fractures.</p>

How sperm whales ram without breaking their skulls? A ploy for female attention

<p>There's a new ocean in making in the world as Africa - one of the largest continents in the world is splitting apart at its East coast. The process, despite being slower in general sense, could change the Earth's geography drastically in comparison to what is visible today. The process would also make Red Sea and Gulf of Aden meet with the new ocean in a rare tri-junction of large water bodies. The event, when occurs, would be similar to how the early Atlantic ocean was created when South America drifted from Africa millions of years ago.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Where is the new ocean being made up?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The new ocean is in the process of making on the East coat of Africa where countries namely Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia are situated. The process is being carried out underneath the Earth surface on the above mentioned area where East African Rift lies. It starts from Ethiopia's Afar region and stretches to Tanzania and Mozambique in South East of the continent while passing through Kenya.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The African plate in the region divides into the Nubian block on the west side and Somali block on the east. The crack in the rift are widening each year and eventually would pave the way for a new ocean which would also meet Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>How a ocean is created?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The process of making of a new ocean starts lava underneath the rift comes up due to various reasons including earthquake. The Afar region lies on a fault line which means frequent earthquakes. Once the lava flows, magma opens up the intrusions called dikes. These dikes push the rocks made by cooled down lava to the side and the fault line deepens. The Earth crust above becomes thin and eventually seawater flows in to make the narrow basin a spreading ridge.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>What is the timeline of making a new ocean in Africa?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The rate of cracks widening is a few millimeters per year. While this number may seem too small in general, it is shape-changing in terms of Earth's geography. The current East African Rift may take about 5 to 10 million years to tear apart and an ocean to run through it at the current rate as per the scientists.</p>

The new ocean is in the process of making on the East coat of Africa where countries namely Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia are situated.

There's a new ocean in making in the world as Africa - one of the largest continents in the world is splitting apart at its East coast. The process, despite being slower in general sense, could change the Earth's geography drastically in comparison to what is visible today. The process would also make Red Sea and Gulf of Aden meet with the new ocean in a rare tri-junction of large water bodies. The event, when occurs, would be similar to how the early Atlantic ocean was created when South America drifted from Africa millions of years ago. Where is the new ocean being made up? The new ocean is in the process of making on the East coat of Africa where countries namely Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia are situated. The process is being carried out underneath the Earth surface on the above mentioned area where East African Rift lies. It starts from Ethiopia's Afar region and stretches to Tanzania and Mozambique in South East of the continent while passing through Kenya. The African plate in the region divides into the Nubian block on the west side and Somali block on the east. The crack in the rift are widening each year and eventually would pave the way for a new ocean which would also meet Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. How a ocean is created? The process of making of a new ocean starts lava underneath the rift comes up due to various reasons including earthquake. The Afar region lies on a fault line which means frequent earthquakes. Once the lava flows, magma opens up the intrusions called dikes. These dikes push the rocks made by cooled down lava to the side and the fault line deepens. The Earth crust above becomes thin and eventually seawater flows in to make the narrow basin a spreading ridge. What is the timeline of making a new ocean in Africa? The rate of cracks widening is a few millimeters per year. While this number may seem too small in general, it is shape-changing in terms of Earth's geography. The current East African Rift may take about 5 to 10 million years to tear apart and an ocean to run through it at the current rate as per the scientists.

<p>The new ocean is in the process of making on the East coat of Africa where countries namely Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia are situated.</p>

A new ocean in the making: This as Africa continues to split into two on east coast

<p>Leopard sharks were seen engaging in a threesome in New Caledonia, the first time any kind of sexual encounter was seen in these marine creatures. The scene was witnessed and recorded by Dr Hugo Lassauce, a researcher at the University of the Sunshine Coast, while snorkelling. Lassauce was in the waters, carrying out a survey of the leopard shark population off the coast of Nouméa, when he saw three of them in a grasping battle. Two males were grasping a female shark's pectoral fins on the sand. He knew something was about to happen and decided to wait. An hour's wait yielded fruit as the sexual rendezvous began. Lassauce said the whole thing was "over in minutes" and lasted only 110 seconds. The first male took 63 seconds, while the second was done in 47 seconds. The males lay flat while the sprightly female shark left the scene. “Then the males lost all their energy and lay immobile on the bottom while the female swam away actively,” Lassauce said. The findings were published in a study in the Journal of Ethology. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ghostly-silence-from-blue-whales-an-ominous-sign-for-the-world-scientists-warn-1753863195541"><strong>Ghostly silence from blue whales is an ominous sign for the world</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>See video of the shark threesome</strong></h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">📍 Nouméa, New Caledonia 🇳🇨<br><br>For the first time in the wild, scientists have documented group copulation in the Endangered Indo-Pacific leopard shark (Stegostoma tigrinum).<br><br>🔗 Read more here: <a href="https://t.co/3Bxn7HqbWH">https://t.co/3Bxn7HqbWH</a><a href="https://twitter.com/ZebraSharkNC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZebraSharkNC</a> <a href="https://t.co/c7j1IieeSX">pic.twitter.com/c7j1IieeSX</a></p>&mdash; ReShark (@resharkorg) <a href="https://twitter.com/resharkorg/status/1970014393544110542?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>First time leopard sharks were seen mating in any form</strong></h2><p>Scientists say this is the first time a leopard shark has been observed mating in the wild. Previously, other shark species had been observed mating in groups, which happened with multiple males and one female. Dolphins are seen mating all the time, but researchers say leopard sharks are not like dolphins. Leopard sharks are a globally endangered species, and experts say this observation will help with conservation efforts. The video from New Caledonia indicates that this site is a mating site for leopard sharks. Dr Christine Dudgeon, a marine ecology and evolution expert, said that this information can help devise ways to promote mating and conservation strategies. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baffling-sound-coming-from-pacific-born-from-something-humans-did-46-years-ago-1758525907990"><strong>Baffling sound coming from Pacific born from something humans did 46 years ago</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dudgeon expressed surprise at witnessing a threesome among the sharks. “It’s surprising and fascinating that two males were involved sequentially on this occasion. From a genetic diversity perspective, we want to find out how many fathers contribute to the batches of eggs laid each year by females," she said. Experts working to conserve and promote reproduction among the leopard sharks have also been working on artificial insemination to “rewild” the species.</p>

Leopard sharks have been seen engaging in sexual activity for the first time ever. Not only this, three of these marine creatures were caught on camera entangled in a threesome, with two males and one female shark.

Leopard sharks were seen engaging in a threesome in New Caledonia, the first time any kind of sexual encounter was seen in these marine creatures. The scene was witnessed and recorded by Dr Hugo Lassauce, a researcher at the University of the Sunshine Coast, while snorkelling. Lassauce was in the waters, carrying out a survey of the leopard shark population off the coast of Nouméa, when he saw three of them in a grasping battle. Two males were grasping a female shark's pectoral fins on the sand. He knew something was about to happen and decided to wait. An hour's wait yielded fruit as the sexual rendezvous began. Lassauce said the whole thing was "over in minutes" and lasted only 110 seconds. The first male took 63 seconds, while the second was done in 47 seconds. The males lay flat while the sprightly female shark left the scene. “Then the males lost all their energy and lay immobile on the bottom while the female swam away actively,” Lassauce said. The findings were published in a study in the Journal of Ethology. Also Read: Ghostly silence from blue whales is an ominous sign for the world See video of the shark threesome

<p>Leopard sharks have been seen engaging in sexual activity for the first time ever. Not only this, three of these marine creatures were caught on camera entangled in a threesome, with two males and one female shark.</p>

110-second deep sea threesome: Three leopard sharks caught mating on camera | Video

<p>Nearly 46 years ago, scientists noticed strange pinging sounds coming from an area in the central Pacific Ocean. Their source remained a mystery for decades. It has now been found to be a remnant of a human activity, showcasing how interfering with nature can have repercussions. In 1979, a deep-sea mining experiment was carried out in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ). This region is rich in nickel, manganese, copper, zinc, and cobalt deposits that are present in rocks known as polymetallic nodules. These materials are used in electric vehicle batteries, and for this reason, the CCZ has been on the radar of the mining industry. Years ago, an experiment tried to understand whether these materials can be mined, and how this might affect the marine system. Later, after the mining experiment was over, the region started emitting strange sounds. Scientists remained confused about their origin. A study has found that the pinging sound is the result of human activity. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dark-oxygen-13-000ft-inside-the-ocean-offers-clues-on-life-in-the-solar-system-1758277151383"><strong>13,000ft-deep secret: Scientists discover oxygen in the darkest region where it shouldn't exist</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The mining experiment left visible marks on the ocean floor. A study led by the National Oceanography Centre and the Natural History Museum in London, published in the journal Nature, states that the mining machinery affected the region and is the reason for the sound. The ocean floor caught the sound of the machines, and this is what researchers have been hearing all these years. The machines are no longer there, yet the sound remains, which is shocking. Dr Adrian Glover, the study’s author, said that the machinery left a sonic imprint, and "the scars made by the mining machine 44 years ago look almost as if they were made yesterday." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/thousands-of-barrels-with-mysterious-chemical-dumped-off-the-coast-of-california-are-making-halo-rings-1757582289880"><strong>Thousands of barrels with mysterious chemical found in the ocean in California cause major scare</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Should oceans be mined?</h2><p>The mining also affected the marine ecosystem, as sea creatures that inhabited the region vanished. The study showed that mobile organisms, such as xenophyophores, are now making a comeback here, although the original animals remain missing. The biological recovery is good news, but the ecosystem remains affected, considering the original species are yet to colonise the area again. The mining experiment shows that mining the seabed might not be a good idea, as it can affect the ecosystem for hundreds of years. Disturbing the marine ecosystem can spell doom for the entire world. This is also the place where scientists found "dark oxygen", that is, oxygen found in the darkest part of the ocean where sunlight does not reach. It was an astonishing discovery since oxygen was being created without photosynthesis.&nbsp;</p>

A strange sound from the Pacific had been baffling scientists for years. They have now uncovered the origins of the pinging. It is not a natural sound but is the result of human activity. It shows that there is a need to safeguard our oceans from human impact.  

Nearly 46 years ago, scientists noticed strange pinging sounds coming from an area in the central Pacific Ocean. Their source remained a mystery for decades. It has now been found to be a remnant of a human activity, showcasing how interfering with nature can have repercussions. In 1979, a deep-sea mining experiment was carried out in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ). This region is rich in nickel, manganese, copper, zinc, and cobalt deposits that are present in rocks known as polymetallic nodules. These materials are used in electric vehicle batteries, and for this reason, the CCZ has been on the radar of the mining industry. Years ago, an experiment tried to understand whether these materials can be mined, and how this might affect the marine system. Later, after the mining experiment was over, the region started emitting strange sounds. Scientists remained confused about their origin. A study has found that the pinging sound is the result of human activity. Also Read: 13,000ft-deep secret: Scientists discover oxygen in the darkest region where it shouldn't exist The mining experiment left visible marks on the ocean floor. A study led by the National Oceanography Centre and the Natural History Museum in London, published in the journal Nature, states that the mining machinery affected the region and is the reason for the sound. The ocean floor caught the sound of the machines, and this is what researchers have been hearing all these years. The machines are no longer there, yet the sound remains, which is shocking. Dr Adrian Glover, the study’s author, said that the machinery left a sonic imprint, and "the scars made by the mining machine 44 years ago look almost as if they were made yesterday." Also Read: Thousands of barrels with mysterious chemical found in the ocean in California cause major scare Should oceans be mined? The mining also affected the marine ecosystem, as sea creatures that inhabited the region vanished. The study showed that mobile organisms, such as xenophyophores, are now making a comeback here, although the original animals remain missing. The biological recovery is good news, but the ecosystem remains affected, considering the original species are yet to colonise the area again. The mining experiment shows that mining the seabed might not be a good idea, as it can affect the ecosystem for hundreds of years. Disturbing the marine ecosystem can spell doom for the entire world. This is also the place where scientists found "dark oxygen", that is, oxygen found in the darkest part of the ocean where sunlight does not reach. It was an astonishing discovery since oxygen was being created without photosynthesis.

<p>A strange sound from the Pacific had been baffling scientists for years. They have now uncovered the origins of the pinging. It is not a natural sound but is the result of human activity. It shows that there is a need to safeguard our oceans from human impact. &nbsp;</p>

Baffling sound coming from Pacific born from something humans did 46 years ago

<p>Scientists have discovered rich deposits of nickel, manganese, copper, zinc, and cobalt 13,123 feet below the surface of the ocean between Hawaii and the western coast of Mexico. This zone is known as the Pacific Ocean’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), and stretches in a 4.5 million-kilometre-square area. Besides the vibrant ecosystem, this region also contains rocks known as polymetallic nodules. These rocks are filled with these precious metals that can help power green energy. However, a study has found that these metals are also capable of producing oxygen in the darkest regions of the oceans. Researchers call it dark oxygen, as it is born in a region where sunlight doesn't reach. They say that this discovery can change the belief about how life began on Earth, and also how it might be born on other bodies in the Solar System, such as &nbsp;Enceladus or Europa, Saturn and Jupiter's icy moons, respectively. The research was published in the journal Nature Geoscience. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/thousands-of-barrels-with-mysterious-chemical-dumped-off-the-coast-of-california-are-making-halo-rings-1757582289880"><strong>Thousands of barrels with mysterious chemical found in the ocean in California cause major scare</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The study authors said that past research has shown that Earth’s oxygen supply began with photosynthetic organisms. “For aerobic life to begin on the planet, there had to be oxygen," Andrew Sweetman, deep-sea ecologist with the Scottish Association for Marine Science and lead author of the study, said in a statement. But now that they know that oxygen can also be produced in the deep sea, where there is no sunlight, scientists say they need to reconsider where aerobic life could have begun. Nearly 10 years ago, Sweetman noted that oxygen levels decreased as they went deeper into the ocean. But then, in 2013, scientists noticed higher levels of oxygen in the CCZ. At the time, there was a glitch in the data or a fault with the systems. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-surprised-to-see-organism-alive-and-moving-inside-arctic-ocean-that-they-thought-was-dead-1757656476816"><strong>Scientists surprised to see organism 'alive and moving' inside Arctic Ocean that they thought was dead</strong></a></p><h2><strong>“Battery in a rock” located deep inside the ocean?</strong></h2><p>However, later analysis and further research showed that the region was producing oxygen. Mining companies refer to these rocks with metals as a “battery in a rock.” This kicked off a new idea in Sweetman's mind. He proposed that these nodules were, for some reason, acting as a kind of “geobattery”. This was supposedly being done by separating hydrogen and oxygen via seawater electrolysis. Then in 2023, he recreated the condition in a lab after a study found that various bacteria and archaea can create “dark oxygen." He killed any microorganisms with mercury chloride, and was surprised to see that oxygen levels were rising. Sweetman also found a voltage of roughly 0.95 volts on the surface of these nodules.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This has further added fuel to the debate that these nodules can solve the world's energy problems. Mining companies want to extract these metals, but experts from 25 countries have asked the International Seabed Authority (ISA) Council to press pause on any operations until the consequences of such an extraction are clear.</p>

The discovery of dark oxygen deep inside the Pacific Ocean’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) between Hawaii and the western coast of Mexico has stumped scientists. It could offer clues about life in other parts of the solar system.

Scientists have discovered rich deposits of nickel, manganese, copper, zinc, and cobalt 13,123 feet below the surface of the ocean between Hawaii and the western coast of Mexico. This zone is known as the Pacific Ocean’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), and stretches in a 4.5 million-kilometre-square area. Besides the vibrant ecosystem, this region also contains rocks known as polymetallic nodules. These rocks are filled with these precious metals that can help power green energy. However, a study has found that these metals are also capable of producing oxygen in the darkest regions of the oceans. Researchers call it dark oxygen, as it is born in a region where sunlight doesn't reach. They say that this discovery can change the belief about how life began on Earth, and also how it might be born on other bodies in the Solar System, such as Enceladus or Europa, Saturn and Jupiter's icy moons, respectively. The research was published in the journal Nature Geoscience. Also Read: Thousands of barrels with mysterious chemical found in the ocean in California cause major scare The study authors said that past research has shown that Earth’s oxygen supply began with photosynthetic organisms. “For aerobic life to begin on the planet, there had to be oxygen," Andrew Sweetman, deep-sea ecologist with the Scottish Association for Marine Science and lead author of the study, said in a statement. But now that they know that oxygen can also be produced in the deep sea, where there is no sunlight, scientists say they need to reconsider where aerobic life could have begun. Nearly 10 years ago, Sweetman noted that oxygen levels decreased as they went deeper into the ocean. But then, in 2013, scientists noticed higher levels of oxygen in the CCZ. At the time, there was a glitch in the data or a fault with the systems. Also Read: Scientists surprised to see organism 'alive and moving' inside Arctic Ocean that they thought was dead “Battery in a rock” located deep inside the ocean? However, later analysis and further research showed that the region was producing oxygen. Mining companies refer to these rocks with metals as a “battery in a rock.” This kicked off a new idea in Sweetman's mind. He proposed that these nodules were, for some reason, acting as a kind of “geobattery”. This was supposedly being done by separating hydrogen and oxygen via seawater electrolysis. Then in 2023, he recreated the condition in a lab after a study found that various bacteria and archaea can create “dark oxygen." He killed any microorganisms with mercury chloride, and was surprised to see that oxygen levels were rising. Sweetman also found a voltage of roughly 0.95 volts on the surface of these nodules. This has further added fuel to the debate that these nodules can solve the world's energy problems. Mining companies want to extract these metals, but experts from 25 countries have asked the International Seabed Authority (ISA) Council to press pause on any operations until the consequences of such an extraction are clear.

<p>The discovery of dark oxygen deep inside the Pacific Ocean’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) between Hawaii and the western coast of Mexico has stumped scientists. It could offer clues about life in other parts of the solar system.</p>

13,000ft-deep secret: Scientists discover oxygen in the darkest region where it shouldn't exist

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