Researchers unveil 50 new deep-sea species off Rapa Nui coast

In a groundbreaking expedition off the coast of Rapa Nui, Chile, between February 24 and April 4, 2024, an international team of 25 scientists from 14 organizations studied the Salas y Gómez Ridge. This underwater mountain chain stretches over 2,900 kilometers and comprises more than 200 seamounts. During their 40-day mission, the researchers discovered 160 species that had never been observed in the region before, with at least 50 to 60 of them identified as potentially new to science. Among the newly documented species were deep-sea corals, glass sponges, sea urchins, squid, fish, mollusks, crabs, and sea stars. The findings raise awareness about the rich biodiversity of these little-explored depths and highlight the ecological significance of protecting these habitats. The research was a collaboration that included the first Rapa Nui marine biologist, Emilia Ra'a Palma Tuki, emphasizing local involvement in global scientific efforts. The expeditions aim to provide valuable data to inform the development of marine protected areas, particularly around the ecologically important sites of Rapa Nui, which can contribute to future conservation strategies.