Scientists have discovered a new species of tiny blue octopus
Researchers have officially described a new species of octopus discovered near the Galápagos Islands at a depth of nearly 1,800 meters.
Der Spiegel reports this, citing a study published in the scientific journal Zootaxa.
The new species has been named Microeledone galapagensis. This unusual mollusk was first recorded back in 2015 during a seabed survey using a remotely operated underwater vehicle.
The octopus is distinguished by the rare blue coloration of its upper body, a dark purple underside, short thick tentacles, and soft skin. It is no larger than a golf ball.
Scientists speculate that this coloration helps the creature camouflage itself from predators in the depths of the ocean.
To study the new species, the scientists did not perform an autopsy, as they had only one specimen. Instead, they used micro-computed tomography to create a detailed 3D model of the octopus to analyze its internal structure.
We previously reported that the recent discovery of two skeletons, mutilated in the same way, suggests that limb amputation was used as a punishment during the Eastern Zhou Dynasty in China, over 2,000 years ago.
We also recall that during excavations in the ancient city of Laodicea in the Turkish province of Denizli, which is included on UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites, a statue of Asclepius, the god of medicine in Greek and Roman mythology, and the head of a statue of his daughter Hygieia were discovered.
