Deep sea explorers reveal dazzling photos of newly described carnivorous species

As human activity continues to wipe out species, scientists are working to describe and protect them before it's too late.

Cladorhiza vanessaekins in close up with long branching arms.
One of the new species, Cladorhiza vanessaekins, was named after the researcher's sister. Source: Queensland Museum

The world’s land surface has rapidly been mapped, but unknown wonders remain deep under the ocean. This week the Queensland Museum shared high-resolution images of six new species discovered by its researchers after they undertook a deep-sea expedition.

The strange new carnivorous sea sponges were picked up during a scientific trawling of the ocean floor by a remotely operated vehicle. The museum’s Dr Merrick Ekins, who controlled the underwater vehicle from behind his desk, said technological advancements are helping researchers understand the diversity of species under the water.

“These sponges showcase the incredible adaptability of life in extreme environments, and challenge our understanding of marine ecosystems. The implications of these discoveries extend beyond mere classification — they highlight the necessity of protecting these fragile ecosystems, which are under threat from climate change and human activity,” Ekins said.

Abyssocladia-johnhooperi resembles an umbrella.
The species Abyssocladia-johnhooperi was named after a prominent sponge taxonomist. Source: Queensland Museum

The discovery was published in the journal Scientific Reports in September, bringing the total of known carnivorous sea sponge species in Australian waters to 35. They were found around Western Australia’s Cape Range Canyon and Ningaloo region, and are part of the family Cladorhizidae which uses branch-shaped skeletal structures to catch prey. They’re known to eat crustaceans and molluscs, but little is known about their role in the ecosystem.

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Abyssocladia-aurora looks small and blue.
Abyssocladia-aurora was named after the Roman goddess of dawn. Source: Queensland Museum

It’s only by describing new species that it’s possible to protect them. Advancements in DNA, visual analysis, and AI technology are helping scientists classify species faster, but they are also disappearing from the planet at a furious pace due to climate change, habitat destruction, over-fishing, and pollution.

“Each time a new-to-science species is described, it reminds us that exploring and classifying the wonders of our natural world is important for conservation and ecological knowledge,” the museum’s CEO Dr Jim Thompson said.

The new sponges have been named Abyssocladia johnhooperi nov. sp — Abyssocladia aurora nov. sp — Abyssocladia janusi nov. sp — Axoniderma challengeri nov. sp — Cladorhiza vanessaekins nov. sp. and Nullarbora ningalooa nov. sp.

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