Eight newly discovered species of deep-sea marine sponges were identified.

In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers from Uppsala University have identified eight new deep-sea species of marine sponges, shedding light on the biodiversity and distribution of these fascinating creatures. Despite marine sponges being widespread across the globe, much remains unknown about their ecological importance and the hidden treasures they hold beneath the waves. The study, led by Julio A. Díaz and his team, focused on exploring uncharted territories around the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, including underwater caves and mountains, to uncover new sponge species.

 

Tetractinellids from Mallorca caves. DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16584/fig-3

The findings of this study have far-reaching implications for marine conservation efforts, particularly in the Mallorca channel seamounts and littoral caves. The researchers advocate for the Spanish government to consider implementing protection measures for these ecologically significant habitats. The data collected also highlights the importance of including underwater mountains within the Natura 2000 Network, underscoring the urgent need for conservation initiatives to safeguard these unique ecosystems.

Sponges, as filter-feeding organisms, play a crucial role in marine ecosystems by purifying large volumes of seawater and serving as essential components of the food chain. With over 9,600 known sponge species worldwide, the discovery of these new deep-sea sponge species adds to our understanding of the rich diversity of marine life that remains unexplored. Julio A. Díaz, a PhD student at the Balearic Oceanographic Centre, along with his colleagues, ventured into the depths of the Balearic Islands, spanning from shallow underwater caves to depths of up to 1000 meters in underwater mountains. Working closely with sponge taxonomist Docent Paco Cárdenas, the team focused on the tetractinellids, a diverse group of sponges with significant comparative material available at the Museum of Evolution, Uppsala University.

Prior to this study, only 16 of the 83 Mediterranean tetractinellid sponges had been documented in the Balearic Islands region. Through their research, the team identified a total of 36 tetractinellid species, including the discovery of eight new species previously unknown to science. These newfound species, such as Stelletta mortarium and Geodia matrix, exhibit unique characteristics that set them apart, from their cup-shaped structures to their ability to accumulate various elements in their bodies. The researchers also paid tribute to Dr. Maria Antònia Bibiloni and Dr. Joana R. Xavier, influential figures in the field of sponge research, by naming new species in their honor.

Julio A. Díaz's work has been supported by the Regional Government of the Balearic Islands and the European Social Fund, underscoring the importance of funding and resources in driving scientific research. The study falls under the LIFE IP INTEMARES project, which aims to enhance scientific knowledge of the Mallorca Channel seamounts for potential inclusion in the Natura 2000 Network. Additional funding from the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, the Spanish National Program, and the SosMed project has further supported this research endeavor. The specimens collected during this study will contribute to ongoing research projects, such as SponBIODIV, which seeks to establish a baseline understanding of sponge biodiversity in the Atlanto-Mediterranean region.

In conclusion, the discovery of eight new deep-sea sponge species not only expands our knowledge of marine biodiversity but also underscores the importance of conservation efforts to protect these fragile ecosystems. The collaborative efforts of researchers, supported by various funding sources, have paved the way for future exploration and understanding of the intricate world of marine sponges.

Source: https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1036873