Scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have spotted a translucent white octopod at a depth of 4,300 meters while collecting geological samples with a remote-operated vehicle on Necker Ridge in the Hawaiian Archipelago. Described as a “remarkable little octopod,” the creature which apparently lacks pigment cells, unlike most cephalopods, is believed to be a previously unknown species.
Old Salt Blog
a virtual port of call for all those who love the sea , hosted by nautical novelist Rick Spilman
Man you find the coolest stuff. I was wondering if this was a congenital issue like albinism or if it’s an actual new species, but I see it’s “believed” to be a new species.
I guess that makes sense as there’s probably not a whole lot of light around 4300 meters anyway–kind of like the bright white grubs you find in a storm cellar that hasn’t seen the light of day in 100 years.
I’m a big fan of biology so this post really excited me.