While oceans cover 71% of Earth, our knowledge of them is surprisingly limited. A mere 5% has been explored, leaving 95% shrouded in mystery. The abyss, reaching depths of 11 kilometres, is a realm of unimaginable pressure (16,000 pounds per square inch), perpetual darkness, and freezing temperatures. Yet, this hostile environment harbours a fascinating array of life.
A recent study by researchers from the US and Chile has revealed one such remarkable species: Dulcibella camanchaca. Discovered in the Atacama Trench along South America’s western coast, this amphipod- a type of crustacean- stands out for its ghostly appearance and predatory behaviour. Four individuals were found at an incredible depth of 7,902 meters, marking a major milestone in deep-sea exploration.
Unlike typical amphipods, which scavenge or feed on organic debris, D. camanchaca actively hunts its prey. This makes it the first predatory amphipod documented in the hadal zone-depths below 6,000 meters- one of Earth’s least explored habitats. Researchers believe this mysterious region could hold valuable insights for science and even for understanding potential life on other planets, the Science Alert reported.
Studying deep-sea ecosystems like this one may provide clues about similar environments on ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, furthering our knowledge of extraterrestrial life.
The discovery of D. camanchaca is groundbreaking not only because of its predatory nature but also because it represents a newly identified genus. Staying true to the tradition of naming amphipods after characters from the Spanish novel Don Quixote, the genus was named Dulcibella after Dulcinea del Toboso. Since “Dulcinea” was already claimed by a beetle, the species name, camanchaca, was chosen, meaning “darkness” in local South American languages- an homage to the shadowy depths it inhabits.
Measuring under 4 centimetres, the pale white D. camanchaca is perfectly adapted to its frigid, dark environment. Its specialized raptorial appendages, or gnathopods, enable it to capture and consume prey.
This extraordinary species was discovered during a 2023 expedition for Chile’s Integrated Deep-Ocean Observing System. Using a lander vehicle outfitted with baited traps, researchers retrieved these rare specimens, unveiling new secrets of the deep ocean and expanding our understanding of life in one of Earth’s most extreme environments.
