Mystery of golden orb found in depths of ocean off Alaska finally solved: 'Everyone was like, What the heck? What is that?'
Live Science • • general
Key Points:
- A mysterious golden orb found two miles deep in Alaskan waters during a 2023 NOAA expedition has been identified as a cuticle secreted by the deep-sea creature Relicanthus daphneae, an anemone-like organism.
- Microscopic analysis revealed the orb contained spirocysts, stinging cells unique to the Hexacorallia class, narrowing its origin to about 4,000 species including corals and anemones.
- Genetic testing detected DNA from R. daphneae and microbes, confirming the orb is a remnant structure the creature secretes to attach itself to rocks on the ocean floor.
- Scientists are still debating the exact taxonomic classification of R. daphneae, with some considering it an ancient lineage of anemones, while genetic data suggests it forms a sister group to true anemones.
- The discovery highlights the importance of combining DNA analysis with physical specimens to understand deep-sea biodiversity and may help track the distribution of these elusive creatures beyond hydrothermal vent areas.
