Ocean scientists discover new unknown life forms
11:14, 8 February
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There are vast numbers of life forms at the bottom of the ocean, many of which are as yet unknown to science. Scientists have made a new discovery by analysing DNA samples from the water depth, according to Science Advances.
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Samples of bottom sediments have been collected from various locations on Earth. The results were shocking: there are around three time more living organisms on the seabed, half of which are previously unknown to scientists.
Ocean scientists have to study not only individual organisms, but whole evolutionary families as well. Information on biodiversity has been obtained by analysing DNA samples collected in the water.
Comparing seabed DNA samples from 2010 to 2016 with existing DNA data from the rest of the ocean, the researchers noted that most of these samples could not be attributed to an already known group of living organisms.
According to the scientists' initial findings, it is worth noting that seabed life is capable of having a global impact on the planet and affecting the climate.
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