Unveiling the mystery of a unique four-eyed sea spider from Antarctic depths

In 2013, an exceptional survey was conducted in the Ross Sea. From a depth of 1640 feet, the research vessel Nathaniel B. Palmer captured a creature that had never been seen before. Ten years later, scientists from Central Michigan University have confirmed that this creature presents a new species in marine fauna that had not been known until now.

The depths around Antarctica are unique for numerous reasons. The Southern Ocean thrives with unique underwater-life despite conditions uninviting for known marine species.

The same has been noted with the mysterious creature in question. After years of research, it has been identified as a representative of sea spiders but of an unknown species. In marine fauna taxonomy, it has been classified as an Austropallene halanychi.

Sea spiders, like crabs and arachnids, are distantly related. They inhabit the seabed across the globe, but the Halanychi species stand out due to their unique genetics, appearance, and feeding behavior, along with their Antarctic origin.

The body of the Halanychi measures about 0.4 inches, with legs extending up to nearly 1.2 inches. Although such measurements are typical for sea spiders, they rarely present with such formidable pincers. In the case of the Halanychi from the Ross Sea, the pincers resemble large boxing gloves.

Rather than for combative uses, it is speculated that the Halanychi utilizes these pincers for feeding. Classifying scientists suggest that these pincers allow the creature to catch soft foods. Prey such as jellyfish, sponges, and worms become easier to capture within these pincers.