🦈 Discovery of a new bioluminescent shark in Australia

The ocean depths remain one of the last unexplored frontiers of our planet, where every scientific dive can reveal astonishing life forms. This profound darkness conceals a rich and varied biodiversity, often unknown to the general public.

An expedition conducted in 2022 aboard the research vessel RV Investigator, operated by CSIRO, allowed for the collection of specimens that led to the identification of several new species. Among the discoveries are a lanternshark and a porcelain crab, described in scientific publications in 2025. This mission contributed to the description of nearly twenty species, with estimates indicating that up to six hundred others could be identified.


The Western Australian lanternshark, named Etmopterus westraliensis, was found at depths reaching 2,000 feet (610 meters). This small predator measures approximately 16 inches (40.7 cm) and has large eyes adapted to the darkness of the deep sea. Its ability to emit light, thanks to light-producing organs called photophores located on its belly, makes it particularly remarkable. This bioluminescence may play a role in camouflage or communication between individuals. Researchers used six specimens to describe this species, which is the third new shark species from the same expedition, joining other discoveries announced previously.

Meanwhile, the new porcelain crab, Porcellanella brevidentata, lives in symbiosis with sea pens, soft corals related to gorgonians. Measuring about 0.6 inches (15 mm), its opalescent white-yellow color allows it to camouflage among the structures of its host. This crab feeds by filtering plankton using modified mouthparts with long hairs, a method different from typical crabs that use their claws. The specimens were collected along the Ningaloo coast at depths of up to 400 feet (122 meters) during extensive surveys.

These discoveries add to a growing list of new species identified through similar expeditions, highlighting the richness of marine biodiversity. Exploring the seabed is essential to increase our knowledge of deep-sea ecosystems and their role in ocean balance. Researchers estimate that many species remain to be discovered, which could have implications for conservation and marine resource management. These efforts also contribute to better understanding evolutionary adaptations in response to environmental changes.


Scientists plan to continue these explorations with new missions, such as an expedition scheduled in the Coral Sea Marine Park. This initiative brings together many researchers who participated in the 2022 mission, as well as new collaborators, to deepen the mapping of deep-sea biodiversity. These journeys transform curiosity into concrete discoveries, strengthening our understanding of marine life and paving the way for future scientific advances.

Bioluminescence in deep-sea creatures

Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon where living organisms produce light through chemical reactions. This ability is widespread in the ocean depths, where darkness is almost total. Creatures such as jellyfish, fish, and some crustaceans use this light for various functions, such as predation, defense, or reproduction. The mechanisms often involve an enzyme called luciferase and a substrate, luciferin, which react to emit a glow. This adaptation allows species to survive in hostile environments where vision is limited.

In the deep sea, bioluminescence primarily serves to attract prey or communicate between individuals. For example, some fish use luminous lures to attract prey, while others emit flashes to scare away predators. This strategy is energetically costly, but it offers significant advantages in an environment where food is scarce. Researchers study these mechanisms to understand how evolution has favored such traits under extreme conditions.

The applications of bioluminescence extend beyond marine biology, inspiring advances in medicine and technology. Scientists use bioluminescent genes as markers in genetic research, allowing visualization of cellular processes. Furthermore, studying these organisms helps develop luminescent materials or environmental sensors. Understanding deep-sea bioluminescence thus enriches our knowledge of life and opens perspectives for scientific innovation.

Finally, the preservation of these ecosystems is important, as pollution and climate change could affect bioluminescent species. Artificial light from human activities can disrupt their behaviors, threatening their survival. Conservation efforts must take these aspects into account to protect marine biodiversity and maintain the balance of deep-sea ecosystems.