A newly identified deep-sea octopus species, discovered 1,773 meters below the surface near Darwin Island, challenges existing classifications within the Megaleredoniidae family, necessitating updates to traditional scientific definitions.
Traditionally, Megaleredoniidae octopuses were defined as large-bodied species native to the frigid, isolated waters of Antarctica.
However, the newly classified species Microeredon galapagensis defies this characterization.
Dr. Janet Voigt, curator emeritus of invertebrates at the Field Museum of Natural History, noted, “Spinous octopods of the deep eastern tropical Pacific remain largely unexplored.”
“Advanced underwater vehicles have provided rare glimpses of these elusive animals, revealing unexpected taxa,” she added.
“Among these discoveries are the small tropical octopods belonging to the family Megaleredoniidae.”
“This family was originally recognized for its substantial Antarctic presence, including species such as Megaleredone Setebos, known for its distinctive adaptations to the cold depths of the Southern Ocean.”
The single female specimen of Microeredon galapagensis was collected during a 2015 research cruise near Darwin Island, an area rich in biodiversity closely associated with Charles Darwin’s scientific work.
Given the difficulty of securing additional specimens, researchers employed micro-CT imaging to study the octopus’s anatomy non-destructively.
“To accurately describe a new octopus species, we need to observe every anatomical part, including the mouth and beak. We were careful not to destroy our only specimen,” Dr. Voigt explained.
“CT imaging is vital for examining rare specimens like this one, as it allows us to gather detailed information without compromising the specimen’s integrity.”
Dr. Stephanie Smith, also from the Field Museum, emphasized the significance of these finds, stating, “It’s exhilarating to showcase these extraordinarily rare and stunning specimens to the public.”
“It’s unparalleled to witness something that few, if any, others have seen.”
The CT scan offered remarkable insights into Microeredon galapagensis, revealing its bifurcated stomach and dormant eggs with unparalleled detail.
Dr. Alexander Ziegler from the University of Bonn remarked, “The depth of detail obtained from the scan of such a small octopus was astonishing. Typically, soft-tissue imaging necessitates contrast agents, which aren’t suitable for such precious specimens.”
This precision facilitates the 3D modeling of its vital organs.
During the same exploration, two additional octopuses believed to belong to the same species were observed, hinting at a possible local population.
“These small deep-sea octopuses are among the rarest creatures on Earth. We are fortunate to study them,” commented Dr. Voigt.
“Even if all land masses were connected, it would be impossible to map the expanse of the Pacific Ocean, leaving much of its depths unexplored.”
The discovery of Microeredon galapagensis is detailed in a research paper published in the journal Zootaxa.
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Janet R. Voight et al. 2026. A new species of Microeredon from the Galapagos Islands and a revised diagnosis of the Megaleredoniidae (Octopoda: Incirrata). Zootaxa 5814 (4): 533-549; doi: 10.11646/zootaxa.5814.4.5
Source: www.sci.news
