A new study reveals that almost 500 distinct deep-sea species have been discovered in Costa Rica’s methane seeps, with 58 new to science. Conducted over ten years by an international team, this research establishes the highest biodiversity count in a single seep region, highlighting the significance of deep-sea ecosystems.
A decade-long study off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica has discovered 488 unique deep-sea species in methane seeps, the highest biodiversity recorded in any single seep or vent region. Conducted by an international collaboration including the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, this research yielded at least 58 species new to science, alongside extensive specimens and DNA sequences.
Between 2009 and 2019, researchers went on five expeditions and performed 63 submersible dives to gather specimens and photographs. While 131 of the documented species existed before this project, 299 species remain taxonomically uncertain, indicating potential undiscovered species.
The project was led by UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography, alongside the University of Costa Rica. With contributions from 28 authors/22 organizations, its goal was to enhance understanding of deep-sea ecosystems and biodiversity. Notably, the ongoing research from the Schmidt Ocean Institute has also led to the discovery of additional species in previously uncharted areas about methane seeps in Chile.
Methane seeps are chemosynthetic environments where methane from the seafloor feeds microbes, forming the base for a variety of marine life. Current studies emphasize that previously unexplored areas in regions like the Chilean coast still harbor undiscovered biodiversity. These findings underscore the value of intensive scientific research in advancing marine biology.
Published in ZooKeys, the study showcases the highest biodiversity recorded in a single seep or vent area, with the research spanning depths of 400 to 3,800 meters. The findings include various marine animals, such as limpets, snails, and corals, many of which do not rely on chemosynthetic symbionts for nutrition.
Funding for the research was facilitated by grants from the National Science Foundation and the Schmidt Ocean Institute. The results shared in this comprehensive study aim to enhance deep-sea biodiversity awareness, support conservation, and inspire similar research globally.
In summary, the exploration of Costa Rica’s methane seeps over a decade has resulted in groundbreaking discoveries of deep-sea biodiversity, with 488 species identified, including 58 new to science. This collaboration highlights the importance of ongoing marine exploration and research for understanding our oceans and promoting conservation efforts.
Original Source: oceanographicmagazine.com
