Qld scientist discovers six mysterious sponges defying ocean depths

Queensland Museum scientists have discovered six previously unknown carnivorous deep-sea sponges using a remotely operated vehicle exploring the ocean floor.

The creatures, from the Cladorhizidae family, were collected during an expedition to the Ningaloo Canyons and south-west Australian canyons, off the coast of Western Australia, at depths previously inaccessible to scientists.

Queensland Museum’s collection manager of sessile marine invertebrates, Dr Merrick Ekins, said he was able to direct the remotely operated vehicle (ROV), the SuBastian, from his desk at the museum.

Abyssocladia johnhooperi is one of six new species of carnivorous deep-sea sponge identified by Queensland Museum scientists.Credit: Queensland Museum

“Our research underscores the importance of deep-sea exploration and the role of technological advancements in uncovering marine biodiversity,” Ekins said.

“These sponges showcase the incredible adaptability of life in extreme environments, and challenge our understanding of marine ecosystems.”

The uniquely shaped sponges prey on small creatures, such as crustaceans, using a range of specialised feeding structures.

Cladorhiza vanessaekins was found in the Cape Range Canyon of the Ningaloo region off Western Australia.Credit: Queensland Museum

The sponges include the elegant Abyssocladia johnhooperi, which has filaments radiating from its disc-shaped body for ensnaring prey.

Nullarbora ningalooa is a bottle-brush-shaped sponge adorned with copious fragile horizontal filaments, while Cladorhiza vanessaekins, which attaches itself to undersea rocks, resembles a tree.

SuBastian is a remotely operated vehicle for undersea sample collection.Credit: Schmidt Ocean Institute

The finds bring the total number of known species of carnivorous sponges in Australian waters to 35.

“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.

Queensland Museum chief executive Dr Jim Thompson said the newly discovered species enhance our knowledge of the Cladorhizidae family.

“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,” he said.

The specimens, collected with either manipulator jaws or suction, were stored in seawater then photographed.

Operated by the Schmidt Ocean Institute, the SuBastian is an underwater robot three metres in length and able to function at depths of 4500 metres. It is outfitted with sensors and scientific equipment to support sample collection.

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