Sponges are not just simple creatures: Meet the carnivorous “death-ball” sponge
Sponges are often considered some of the simplest and least dangerous animals on Earth. However, a recent discovery in the deep sea near Antarctica has introduced a new species that challenges this perception.
The carnivorous “death-ball” sponge is one of the 30 new creatures uncovered earlier this year by the Nippon Foundation–Nekton Ocean Census. This unique sponge belongs to the genus Chondrocladia, also known as ping pong ball sponges due to their bubble-like appearance.
Despite their innocent look, these sponges are equipped with tiny hooks that allow them to capture small prey, most likely crustaceans. Unlike some other sponges that feed on fossils, the death-ball sponge has a more active hunting strategy.
Exploring the depths of the Southern Ocean
The Nippon Foundation–Nekton Ocean Census, launched in 2023, aims to catalog previously unknown marine species inhabiting the Southern Ocean, a region that remains largely unexplored.
During a recent expedition, the Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) SuBastian discovered the death-ball sponges at a depth of 3,601 meters (11,814 feet) in a trench east of Montagu Island, part of a remote island chain near Antarctica.
Alongside the carnivorous sponges, the expedition also revealed new species of scale worms with iridescent armor, as well as previously undiscovered crustaceans and sea stars.
Unveiling hidden ecosystems
One of the expedition’s highlights was capturing the first-ever video of a juvenile colossal squid. Additionally, the team explored a newly discovered ecosystem beneath a massive iceberg that broke off from a glacier in West Antarctica.
Although the expedition has concluded, the researchers are now diving into the data collected to further analyze the biodiversity of the Southern Ocean. According to Michelle Taylor, Head of Science at the Ocean Census, only a fraction of the samples have been assessed so far, indicating a vast amount of undocumented biodiversity in the region.
Continuing the quest for discovery
Recent years have seen numerous new marine species emerging from the depths of the oceans, showcasing the vast unknown biodiversity that exists below the surface. From peculiarly spiky crabs to charming fish reminiscent of Animal Crossing characters, the ocean never fails to surprise.
All confirmed species from the Ocean Census will be accessible through an open-access data platform, allowing researchers and enthusiasts alike to explore the newly discovered marine life in the Southern Ocean.
