In the depths of the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Chile, scientists have captured mesmerizing footage of a rare and enigmatic Deepstaria jellyfish with an unexpected companion—a bright-orange isopod residing within its bell. This unique encounter was documented during an expedition by the Schmidt Ocean Institute, bringing to light a fascinating relationship between these deep-sea creatures.
A Surreal Sight in the Twilight Zone
The haunting footage captures the Deepstaria jellyfish drifting serenely 2,766 feet (843 meters) below the ocean’s surface in the shadowy twilight zone. Its ghostly, translucent body pulses methodically, exposing a web of veins that starkly contrasts with the vivid orange isopod nestled within. Far from being a transient visitor, this isopod, a crustacean, has established a permanent residence inside the jellyfish’s bell.
The Discovery and Identification of Deepstaria
The jellyfish is from the Deepstaria genus, a unique group known for their lack of the long, stinging tentacles common in other jellyfish. Rather than stinging, they trap their prey by engulfing it with their large, billowing bell. Deepstaria jellyfish were first identified in 1966 off California’s coast, named after the submersible Deepstar 4000 that discovered them. Since that initial finding, encounters with these elusive creatures have remained exceedingly rare.
Global Distribution and Habitat
There are currently two recognized species within the Deepstaria genus: Deepstaria enigmatica and Deepstaria reticulum. While their exact distribution is still unclear, these species have been found in various locations, including the Gulf of Mexico, the coast of California, the Caribbean, the Central Atlantic Ocean, and even the Southern Ocean near Antarctica. These jellyfish are typically observed at depths ranging from 2,000 to 5,700 feet (600 to 1,750 meters).
Prey Capture and the Role of the Isopod
Deepstaria jellyfish use their membranous bell to engulf small crustaceans, fish, and even other jellyfish. Once captured, the prey is trapped inside the bell as the jellyfish closes its body around it. This unique feeding mechanism also provides an opportunity for isopods to enter the jellyfish’s body. However, the isopod seen in the footage is not prey; it has become a symbiotic resident.
Scientific Insights into Deepstaria’s Anatomy
This offers a rare glimpse into the complex gastrovascular system of Deepstaria, crucial for digesting and distributing food within the jellyfish’s body. According to Allen Collins, a curator at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, this particular jellyfish is identified as Deepstaria enigmatica, which belongs to the Ulmaridae family, the same family as the common moon jellyfish.
The Blind Isopod: Anuropus bathypelagicus
The isopod seen in the video is identified as Anuropus bathypelagicus, a large, blind crustacean that can grow up to 3 inches (8 centimeters) long. Researchers have previously observed this isopod living within both species of Deepstaria, using its hooked appendages to grip onto the jellyfish’s body. Its presence within the jellyfish has sparked scientific curiosity about its role in this unusual relationship.
Historical Observations and Theories
In a 1969 study, researchers using the Deepstar submersible observed a Deepstaria enigmatica jellyfish exhibiting abnormal, sluggish swimming movements. They noted that a small Anuropus isopod was clinging to the jellyfish’s body, leading to speculation that the isopod might be feeding on its host. The jellyfish was missing several body parts, including its stomach lining, further supporting this theory. However, it’s also possible that the isopod feeds on prey captured by the jellyfish.
The Mystery of Their Symbiotic Relationship
While the exact nature of the relationship between Deepstaria and Anuropus bathypelagicus remains unclear, scientists believe that the isopod benefits from the jellyfish’s protection and mobility in the deep sea. As a blind creature, the isopod may find safety and transportation by hitching a ride inside the jellyfish’s bell. Whether the jellyfish derives any benefit from this arrangement is still a mystery, leaving researchers with more questions to explore after experiencing this rare interaction.
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