cientists have discovered a strange, 20‑legged creature nearly 3,840 feet beneath Antarctic waters. This rare deep‑sea animal, a type of feather star, was discovered in a research expedition that spanned from 2008 to 2017 by a team led by researchers such as Greg Rouse and Emily McLaughlin. It swims using its long spindly legs in the pitch‑black depths.
What the Creature Looks Like
The creature, officially named Promachocrinus fragarius, has a round body resembling a strawberry and 20 long feather-like legs. It ranges in color from purple to deep red and looks almost alien when it moves. The legs are arranged in spirals and help it swim gracefully in deep water.
How It Was Discovered
Using nets, scientists collected samples during Antarctic research expeditions over nearly a decade. DNA tests and close anatomical studies revealed this was a new species among crinoids. Before this, only one species of Antarctic feather star was known; now there are at least eight, including this new 20‑legged star
Why the Discovery Is Important
Finding a new species so deep underwater shows how much we still don’t know about Earth’s oceans. These deep-sea areas are one of the least explored places on the planet . Scientists say this creature helps us learn more about biodiversity and life’s ability to adapt in darkness and extreme pressure.
What Comes Next
Studying these feather stars may help us understand deep-sea ecosystems better. Scientists hope future expeditions will find more new species and help protect these fragile habitats. Promachocrinus fragarius now joins other mysterious Antarctic ocean discoveries like eyeless sea cucumbers, giant sea spiders, and blood-red squids
