Giant siphonophore found in Australian waters

A siphonophore of the genus Apolemia, measuring around 46 meters, was photographed off the coast of Western Australia. This discovery may challenge the blue whale's long-held title as the longest animal on Earth.

Underwater robot captures the creature

The footage was recorded by an underwater robot on the research vessel Falkor, operated by the Schmidt Ocean Institute. The dive took place in the Ningaloo underwater canyons, a part of the Indian Ocean known for its coral reefs but largely unexplored in its depths.

Siphonophore is a colonial organism

The siphonophore is not a single organism but a colony of thousands of genetically identical zooids, each performing a specific function. This structure resembles a related, smaller species called Apolemia uvaria, which typically grows no longer than three meters.

Research expedition discovers new species

The expedition, led by researchers from the Western Australian Museum, aimed to explore uncharted underwater canyons. Over 181 hours of exploration, the team identified up to 30 potential new species, including a bioluminescent squid and a long-tailed sea cucumber.

Discovery challenges definitions of life

The siphonophore's structure blurs the line between individual and colony, raising questions about what defines an animal. Unlike the blue whale, which is a single organism, the siphonophore functions as a unified unit despite being composed of many separate parts.

Length remains an estimate

The exact length of the siphonophore is still uncertain due to its movement and structure. Scientists suggest this discovery could lead to a reevaluation of biological classifications, which have traditionally been based on terrestrial and mammalian perspectives.