More than 110 new species discovered in deep waters off Australia

Scientists have identified more than 110 previously unknown species from deep areas of the Coral Sea, with the total expected to exceed 200 as researchers continue processing photos and specimens collected during a recent expedition.

Scientists have identified more than 110 previously unknown species in deep waters beyond the edges of Australia's Great Barrier Reef. The specimens and images were collected during a Coral Sea expedition late last year. Finds came from habitats including seamounts, atolls and unexplored deep reefs, with observations from depths down to about 10,000 feet. The Coral Sea Marine Park spans nearly 400,000 square miles and much of its deep ocean remains little explored. Key findings: - More than 110 new species have been identified so far, and the total is likely to surpass 200 as scientists examine more photos and specimens. - New discoveries include brittlestars, crabs, sea anemones, sponges, worms, rays, a ghost shark and a deepwater catshark. - Specimens and images were studied in a series of workshops around Australia after the voyage. - Scientists used genetic testing to help confirm and describe many of the new species. - Observations and collections came from locations such as seamounts, atolls and deep reefs within the Coral Sea Marine Park. Summary: The findings underscore the rich and largely unexplored biodiversity of the deep Coral Sea and add dozens of new entries to scientific records. Researchers say the total number of identified new species could rise as they continue analyzing collected specimens, photos and genetic data.