During deep-sea dives off Southern California, researchers discovered three species of sea spiders living in methane seep and hydrothermal vent habitats. These translucent, ~1 cm arthropods host methane-oxidizing bacteria on their exoskeletons, which they scrape off and eat—converting methane into a carbon source. Published in PNAS, the discovery reshapes our understanding of methane cycling and deep-sea ecosystems, showcasing previously unknown adaptations. The findings may lead to broader insights into climate regulation and marine biodiversity in extreme environments.
Source: SFGate sfgate.com