Jellyfish with possibly venomous bright red cross and 240 tentacles found near remote deep-sea volcano
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Scientists have discovered a new jellyfish species called Santjordia pagesi near the Sumisu Caldera, a hydrothermally active deep-sea volcanic structure in Japan's Ogasawara Islands. The jellyfish has a unique red cross in its stomach and 240 tentacles. It was captured in 2002 by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) at a depth of 812 meters. The environment around the volcanic structure is inhospitable and accessible only through specialized equipment. The species is smaller than other deep-sea medusae and its red cross on the stomach is believed to be related to capturing food. The researchers speculate that the jellyfish may possess a venomous arsenal. The discovery is significant as it signals evolutionary divergence and possible novel adaptations. The classification of S. pagesi within a new subfamily, Santjordiinae, has been proposed. The researchers hope to draw attention to the species present at the site, which has the potential for commercial development.

#Jellyfish #Deep-sea #Volcano #SpeciesDiscovery

https://www.wionews.com/science/jellyfish-with-possibly-venomous-bright-red-cross-and-240-tentacles-found-near-remote-deep-sea-volcano-688201