Carnivorous "Death-Ball" Sponge Among 30 New Deep-Sea Species Discovered Near Antarctica Under Ocean Census Project (1)
Published on December 14, 2025
Scientists from The Nippon Foundation–Nekton Ocean Census, a global alliance dedicated to the discovery and protection of marine life, have discovered 30 previously unknown deep-sea species in one of the most remote parts of the planet－the depths of the Southern Ocean, also known as the Antarctic Ocean
The discoveries were made in partnership with the Schmidt Ocean Institute of the United States during two research cruises as part of an Ocean Census flagship expedition onboard its research vessel (RV) Falkor (too) using underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) SuBastian. The expedition surveyed volcanic calderas, the South Sandwich Trench and seafloor habitats around Montagu and Saunders islands.
The team collected nearly 2,000 specimens across 14 animal groups and discovered 30 new species, alongside thousands of high-definition images and hours of video, according to Ocean Census.
The most surprising of these new creatures is a species of sponge in the Chondrocladia sp. nov. genus. Dubbed "death-ball" sponge, its spherical form is covered in small, clear ping-pong-like balls complete with tiny hooks to trap prey in a clear contrast to the gentle, passive, filter-feeding undertaken by most sponges.
The death ball sponge was discovered at a depth of 3,601 meters at the Trench North dive site, east of Montagu Island. The discovery of this sponge highlights the incredible diversity of life in the deep sea.
The expedition also revealed a new species of armored and iridescent scale worms, called Eulagisca sp. nov., as well as three previously unknown species of sea stars: Brisingidae, Benthopectinidae and Paxillosidae.
Previously unknown crustaceans, including isopods and amphipods, were also found. There is also material under review that may suggest the expedition unveiled an entirely new amphipod family, the researchers said.
Rare gastropods and bivalves that have adapted to volcanic and hydrothermal-influenced habitats, as well as a possible new species of black coral, were also among the discoveries.
Researchers also observed the "zombie" worm, formally Osedax sp, which has no mouth or gut. The species feeds by relying on symbiotic bacteria to break down fats inside the bones of large vertebrates, like whales.
While "zombie" worms are not new to science, they have rarely been observed due to the depths at which they live.
(To be continued)
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