New creatures revealed: Indian Ocean expeditions find 149 unknown species
Marine researchers have identified a total of 149 new species of animals in the depths of the Indian Ocean. The finds occurred near the isolated Keeling Islands, approximately 2,100 kilometers off the northwest coast of Australia. The discoveries were made on 22 seamounts during expeditions in 2021 and 2022 aboard the RV Investigator, and detailed in the June 2026 issue of the journal Deep Sea Research Part II: Topical Studies in Oceanography.
Details about the new species found
Among the newly discovered specimens, some animals with peculiar characteristics stand out. A sponge crab that uses marine invertebrates as a kind of protective cover, a starfish with a robust structure and a worm with a translucent body were catalogued.
Exploration has reached remarkable depths, with certain creatures being recorded more than 4,800 meters from the ocean surface. A small annelid worm, with a very rigid body, was one of the beings seen in these extreme conditions, generating surprise in the scientific community.
The research involved a collaboration between experts from the Australian Museum, CSIRO and Museums Victoria. Together, they collected more than a thousand specimens, which are currently being preserved in Australian institutions and will serve as a basis for future studies.
Scientists and the CSIRO organization emphasize that the information obtained is crucial for the management of Australia’s network of isolated marine parks. This data is essential to assist in efforts to combat the impacts caused by human action in the oceans.
Experts highlight the relevance of the biodiversity observed in seamounts, which act as connecting links or natural “steps”. This role is essential, as it facilitates the movement of different forms of marine life, promoting the mixture of unique fauna with more common species and enriching genetic and ecological exchange between different regions of the ocean.
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Other creatures already identified on expeditions
In addition to the recent deep-sea finds, CSIRO had already released previous discoveries made on the same RV Investigator expeditions. Among them, a spotted horn shark and a species of sea cucumber called O’Loughlin were revealed, characterized by having ten pairs of legs and tubular projections on its back.
In a statement to People, Claire Rowe, who co-signed the scientific article, highlighted that the abyssal zones of the oceans remain largely unknown. She emphasized that uncovering these ecosystems is a fundamental responsibility to ensure their protection against contemporary dangers.
The researchers say the fundamental knowledge gained from these survey missions provides indispensable support to institutions like Parks Australia. This database directly contributes to the management of ocean biodiversity, benefiting not only the Australian nation, but also the global stage.
