31 new marine species found in Brazil

June 28, 2026

A groundbreaking marine expedition in the South Atlantic has revealed 31 previously unknown marine species in only two weeks, highlighting the incredible biodiversity hidden beneath the ocean's surface. Scientists say the rapid pace of discovery was made possible by advanced imaging technology and international scientific collaboration.

Scientists explore Earth's largest hidden habitat

The discoveries were made during an international research mission in waters off the coast of Brazil aboard the research vessel Falkor (too), operated by the Schmidt Ocean Institute. Researchers from the United States, Brazil, Australia, and Japan focused on the mysterious ocean midwater zone—the vast region between the sunlit surface and the seafloor.

Although this environment represents nearly 90% of Earth's living space, it remains one of the least explored ecosystems on the planet.

31 new marine species identified

The expedition documented an impressive collection of previously undescribed marine life, including:

• 9 new jellyfish species
• 7 siphonophores
• 7 comb jellies (ctenophores)
• 4 larvaceans
• 2 giant rhizarians
• 1 amphipod crustacean
• 1 fast-swimming gossamer worm

Many of these fragile organisms inhabit the ocean's twilight zone, where little sunlight penetrates and scientific observations remain rare. Their unique adaptations could provide valuable insights into marine evolution and ecosystem function.

Advanced technology accelerates ocean discoveries

One of the mission's greatest achievements was the use of cutting-edge research tools that dramatically shortened the time required to identify new species.

Scientists deployed a new laser-based confocal microscope capable of producing live 3D images of cellular structures directly aboard the vessel. Combined with onboard genetic analysis and high-resolution underwater imaging systems, researchers could examine delicate organisms without damaging them and verify many new species within days instead of years.

Why the midwater zone matters

The ocean's midwater region plays a critical role in regulating Earth's climate. Every night, billions of marine organisms migrate toward the surface to feed before returning to deeper waters by day. This daily movement helps transport carbon into the deep ocean, making the ecosystem an important component of the global carbon cycle.

Despite its significance, scientists say much of this underwater world remains unexplored, leaving countless species and ecological processes yet to be discovered.

A reminder of how much remains unknown

Researchers believe the expedition demonstrates the enormous scientific potential of combining innovative technology with international collaboration. Every new expedition into the deep ocean continues to reveal extraordinary biodiversity and expands our understanding of how marine ecosystems support life on Earth.

As exploration technologies improve, scientists expect many more discoveries from the world's largest—and still largely mysterious—marine habitat.