In Photos: Wild Creatures Inhabit Undersea Vent

News
By published

Undersea habitats

deep sea vent life

(Image credit: University of Southampton)

"Tiamat," a relatively cool diffuse flow chimney in Longqi vent field. Like Knucker's Gaff, the chimney rises more than 49 feet (15 meters) from the seafloor. Among the animals making their homes here were the scaly-foot gastropod Chysomallon squamiferum and the new snail species Gigantopelta aegis.

[Read full story on the deep-sea vent]

Crabs, snails — sea life

deep sea vent life

(Image credit: University of Southampton)

Snails and hairy-chested "Hoff crabs" huddle up in the Longqi vent field, fighting for access to the warm, mineral-rich waters. Hoff crabs grow bacteria on their hairy arms and chests and then consume this bacteria, an adaptation to help them survive their deep-sea lifestyle.

Live Science Staff
Live Science Staff
For the science geek in everyone, Live Science offers a fascinating window into the natural and technological world, delivering comprehensive and compelling news and analysis on everything from dinosaur discoveries, archaeological finds and amazing animals to health, innovation and wearable technology. We aim to empower and inspire our readers with the tools needed to understand the world and appreciate its everyday awe.