Deep-Sea Survey Uncovers Hidden Ocean Biodiversity

Scientists have uncovered a remarkable range of marine life in deep underwater canyons in Australia, including the elusive giant squid and dozens of species never before recorded in the region.

“Finding evidence of a giant squid really captures people’s imagination, but it’s just one part of a much bigger picture,” said Dr Georgia Nester, lead author of the study and researcher at the Minderoo OceanOmics Centre.

Using environmental DNA collected from more than 1,000 samples at depths of up to 4,510 metres, researchers identified 226 species across 11 major animal groups. The survey detected giant squid in six separate samples, along with rare deep-diving whales, sleeper sharks, faceless cusk eels and other species previously unrecorded in Western Australian waters. Scientists also found many organisms that do not closely match existing records, suggesting substantial biodiversity remains to be documented. The findings demonstrate how new DNA-based techniques can reveal hidden ecosystems, helping researchers improve marine conservation, guide protected area planning and deepen understanding of the deep ocean.