New Deep-Sea Snailfish Discovered! What Makes It So Bumpy?

Bumpy Snailfish: A New Species Emerges from the Deep!

Scientists have discovered a new species of deep-sea snailfish, dubbed the "bumpy snailfish" (Careproctus colliculi). This remarkable creature was identified by researchers collaborating with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) and SUNY Geneseo.

MBARI's advanced underwater technology played a crucial role in documenting deep-sea biodiversity, providing essential data for informed decision-making regarding ocean conservation. This information is vital for protecting marine life and communities from threats such as climate change and deep-sea mining.

The bumpy snailfish was first encountered in 2019 by MBARI researchers. Subsequent analysis confirmed that this pink-hued fish, observed swimming near the seafloor, represented a previously unknown species. It has a distinctive pink color, pectoral fins with long fin rays, and a unique bumpy texture.

Unveiling the Secrets of the Deep

A research team from the State University of New York at Geneseo (SUNY Geneseo), in collaboration with scientists from the University of Montana and the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, detailed their findings in the journal Ichthyology and Herpetology. Their publication describes the bumpy snailfish, along with two other snailfish species, found on the abyssal seafloor off the coast of California.

"MBARI aims to democratize ocean exploration by sharing data and technology," said MBARI Senior Scientist Steven Haddock. "We welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with SUNY Geneseo to expand our understanding of life in the deep ocean, especially since documenting deep-sea biodiversity is critical to detecting any changes that may be occurring in this environment."

The Snailfish Family: Masters of Adaptation

Snailfishes, belonging to the family Liparidae, are characterized by their large heads, jelly-like bodies covered in loose skin, and narrow tails. These adaptations allow them to thrive in the extreme pressures and darkness of the deep sea. This discovery highlights the ongoing importance of deep-sea exploration and the potential for uncovering even more undiscovered species.