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Sea of New Ocean Life Discovered

Scientists find new crustaceans, rays, sharks and coral

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted Sep 19, 2008 2:42 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Over 100 new ocean species have been discovered in coral reefs off Western Australia during a global census of marine life. They include exotic soft corals, new kinds of jellyfish, rays and shellfish, and parasites that feed on the tongues of fish, reports the Sydney Morning Herald. The discoveries are just a fraction of the new species being identified globally.

Marine biologists warn the reefs face threats from ocean acidification, pollution, global warming and overfishing. "Only by establishing a baseline of biodiversity and following through with later censuses can people know the impact of those threats and find clues to mitigate them," said the head of the Australian Institute of Marine Science.

Marine scientists have discovered hundreds of new animal species, like this green banded snapping shrimp, on reefs in Australian waters.
Marine scientists have discovered hundreds of new animal species, like this green banded snapping shrimp, on reefs in Australian waters.   (AP Photo/Gary Cranitch, Queensland Museum)
Marine scientists have discovered hundreds of new animal species on reefs in Australian waters, including brilliant soft corals and tiny crustaceans.
Marine scientists have discovered hundreds of new animal species on reefs in Australian waters, including brilliant soft corals and tiny crustaceans.   (AP Photo/Gary Cranitch, Queensland Museum)
Marine scientists have discovered hundreds of new animal species on reefs in Australian waters, including brilliant soft corals and tiny crustaceans.
Marine scientists have discovered hundreds of new animal species on reefs in Australian waters, including brilliant soft corals and tiny crustaceans.   (AP Photo/Gary Cranitch, Queensland Museum)
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Census explorers find trove of new species
Census of Marine Life Portal

New species discovered at the Great Barrier Reef
The Independent

 
shark • jellyfish • coral reef • Western Australia • Great Barrier Reef • Ningaloo Reef • Census of Marine Life • Australian Institute of Marine Science • AIMS • Australian Museum • rays

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