A team of marine biologists has discovered an unusual new species during an expedition to the Southern Ocean near Antarctica. The creature, which resembles a hybrid between a jellyfish and a squid, was found living at depths exceeding 3,000 meters where sunlight cannot penetrate and temperatures hover just above freezing. Researchers captured images using a remotely operated underwater vehicle equipped with high-definition cameras and specialized lighting systems.
The organism has been assigned a provisional taxonomic designation pending further analysis. Initial observations suggest it may represent an entirely novel phylum previously unknown to science. Such discoveries are significant for understanding biodiversity in extreme environments and how organisms adapt to conditions of crushing pressure, absolute darkness and near-freezing temperatures. The research team intends to return for a follow-up expedition next year to collect specimens for detailed laboratory study.
Sources: National Geographic / Scientific American
The words in bold are from the article.
| 1. marine | a. journey |
| 2. expedition | b. pass through |
| 3. penetrate | c. temporary |
| 4. remotely | d. from a distance |
| 5. provisional | e. major group |
| 6. taxonomic | f. ocean |
| 7. phylum | g. variety of life |
| 8. biodiversity | h. samples |
| 9. adapt | i. adjust |
| 10. specimens | j. classification |
1.f 2.a 3.b 4.d 5.c 6.j 7.e 8.g 9.i 10.h