Scientists Discover New Species of Deep-Sea Fish
Researchers from the Ocean Institute announced a remarkable find last Tuesday. A previously unknown species of luminescent fish has been identified at depths exceeding 3,000 metres. The discovery was made during a routine survey of the Pacific trench. The team had not anticipated finding anything unusual when they deployed their equipment that morning.
The fish, provisionally named Abyssolux mirabilis, produces a striking blue-green glow along its lateral line. Scientists believe the species may have evolved in complete isolation for millions of years.
The research team used a remotely operated vehicle equipped with ultra-sensitive cameras to capture the footage. Samples of the fish's skin tissue have been collected for genetic analysis back at the laboratory. Early results suggest its DNA differs significantly from any previously catalogued deep-sea species.
The findings are expected to be published in the journal Nature later this month. Marine biologists worldwide have described the discovery as one of the most exciting of the decade. A formal species description is expected to be submitted to an international taxonomy registry within the year.