Science
Scientists identify deep-sea blob as new species using only video – The Guardian
Duobrachium sparksae is a type of ctenophore, or comb jelly, but video identification without physical specimen ‘can be controversial’
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Scientists have for the first time identified a small gelatinous blob in the deep sea as a new species, using only high-definition underwater cameras.
The creature, officially known as Duobrachium sparksae, is a new species of ctenophore, or comb jelly. It was discovered in an underwater canyon north-west of Puerto Rico in April 2015 but has only now been described in a research paper.
No physical specimens of the animal have been collected but the species…
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