Ten Kilometers Down: Chinese Researchers Uncover New Species in the Ocean's Deepest Zone

Exploring Life in the Hadal Zone: A Major Discovery

According to НВ — Техно: Between 2020 and 2024, scientists from the Institute of Deep-Sea Science and Engineering at the Chinese Academy of Sciences conducted 98 dives in the manned submersible Fendouzhe, which can reach depths exceeding 10 kilometers. As part of the Global Hadal Zone Research Program, the team identified 32 new organisms-most previously unknown to science-in the hadal zone, the ocean layer spanning depths from 6 to 11 kilometers.

Key Findings from the Deep

The study documented ecosystems across seven deep-sea regions, including the Mariana and Kermadec Trenches. Among the 32 species, which belong to six phyla, four were extremely tiny-just a few millimeters in size. Peng Xiaotong noted,

“the most unexpected discovery was four new, very small species measuring just a few millimeters.”

These newfound species dominated rocky areas of the Kermadec Trench, where up to 4,300 individuals were counted on a single square decimeter of rock.

Researchers also identified two new families: Plumettidae (single-chambered foraminifera) and Pierrellidae (bryozoans). Inside the organisms, partially digested pine pollen was found, indicating they feed on organic debris. Similar communities were observed in:

• Aleutian Trench
• Kuril-Kamchatka Trench
• Atacama Trench
• Puysegur Trench
• Mussau Trench

These newly discovered organisms are estimated to account for 2% to 11% of all eukaryotic biomass in the hadal zone. The deepest recorded bryozoan was found at 9,981 meters, and a scyphozoan polyp was documented at 9,982 meters.

This research sheds light on the remarkable biodiversity of the deep ocean and opens new avenues for studying hadal ecosystems. The findings underscore the need for continued exploration of these largely uncharted waters. Beyond enriching our understanding of marine biodiversity, these discoveries may prove critical for ecology, marine conservation, and assessing how climate change impacts these unique environments.

In addition to these groundbreaking findings, researchers have also discovered a new species of miniature octopus at a depth of 1,773 meters, showcasing the incredible diversity of life in our oceans. This recent discovery highlights the ongoing importance of deep-sea exploration and the potential for uncovering even more unique species. For further insights into this fascinating underwater world, check out the details of the recently identified octopus species.