Deep Sea Explorers Discover Giant Ghost Jellyfish off Argentina's Coast

Deep sea explorers discovered a giant ghost jellyfish (Stygiomedusa gigantea) in the deep waters off Argentina's coast, accompanied by 28 newly identified marine species. According to a statement from the Schmidt Ocean Institute, scientists recorded the rare marine creature while operating a remote underwater vehicle (ROV) exploring the Colorado-Rawson submarine canyon. The scientific team observed remarkable biodiversity along the country's continental shelf, traveling from Buenos Aires in the north to the offshore regions of Tierra del Fuego. The expedition identified 28 potentially new species, including marine worms, corals, sea urchins, mollusks, and sea anemones. The ghost jellyfish, characterized by four extensible 10-meter-long 'mouth arms', was captured on video moving through the dark depths, with small fish swimming around its translucent, bell-shaped body. Scientists note that this species can live from near the surface to depths of about 21,900 feet, but is most commonly found in the 'twilight zone' where sunlight does not penetrate.