On one of those major research expeditions through the coastline of Western Australia, scientists discovered an entirely new species of octopus. They decided to call it the Carnarvon flapjack octopus. As a systematic taxonomist, Dr. Verhoeff was instrumental in identifying and naming this creature as a new species. Scientists are systematically cataloging marine biodiversity in Australian waters. This region is known as a global hotspot for diversity of cirrate octopus species.
The Carnarvon flapjack octopus is a kind of cirrate or “dumbo” octopus, so named for their readily identifiable characteristics. This little octopus is only about four centimeters across at full size. Explore the pancake-shaped doughnut-fish. It can incredibly flatten its body into a very pancake, or flapjack shape! It has a unique external morphology, including a pair of fins atop its head that resemble small elephant ears. These colorful fins assist this fish as it glides gracefully through the water.
The first was for an astonishing find during a research cruise. Under these conditions they deployed cutting edge underwater camera systems to survey depths down to over 1,000 meters below the ocean’s surface. This expedition has already returned with discoveries – including the identification of ten new marine species.
Unique Characteristics of the Carnarvon Flapjack Octopus
The Carnarvon flapjack octopus has some unique features that make it distinct from its relatives. One of its most captivating characteristics is its ability to lame its body. This adaptation is one of the reasons why it is better able to maneuver through its dimly lit deep-sea habitat. Further, the cephalopod’s large eyes help to maximize its ability to prey upon animals like worms and small crustaceans.
Of course — as Dr. Verhoeff is quick to point out — identifying new species is essential. He stated, “It is easy to think you have a new species when you don’t. That’s why it takes time as you need to compare specimens and literature descriptions.” This deliberate focus highlights the importance of scientific rigor in taxonomy.
Since 2021, Dr. Verhoeff has been central to describing six new cirrate octopus species. This amazing piece of art reflects our deepening appreciation of these truly remarkable marine animals. Specimens that were just languishing for decades unidentified in collections have brought on some really monumental discoveries. This points to the incredible depth of knowledge still to be learned.
Biodiversity and Conservation Implications
It is a well-known fact that Australia has the most diverse cirrate octopus fauna in the world with 15 species recorded in its waters alone. The number of cirrate octopus species recorded worldwide now tops 50. Venetia Joscelyne, a marine biologist involved in the research, stated, “Incredibly, scientists estimate that there are likely more than 1,000 new species waiting to be described from specimens collected on CSIRO RV Investigator voyages over the past 10 years.”
The quest to find new species, such as the Carnarvon flapjack octopus, is not just scientific window dressing. Dr. Verhoeff emphasized that describing new species is crucial for future ecological work and for assessing populations for conservation efforts. He remarked, “Its presence adds extra value to the recently established marine parks.”
Our marine managers can only be strengthened by these findings. This invaluable information will help organizations like Parks Australia better conserve and protect the amazing, unique diversity of marine life found in Australia’s oceans.
Continuing Research and Future Discoveries
The scientific expedition that uncovered this rainbow starfish forms part of a larger collaborative push to protect Australia’s deep-sea ecosystems. The development of new underwater technology has allowed scientists to survey greater depths and discover many new species.
Dr. Verhoeff shared his enthusiasm to see continued discoveries in the field of marine biodiversity. He remarked, “It is exciting, but at the same time, there is pressure to do it right.” At the same time, researchers tend to be extremely diligent and scientific. This is to better certify that they’re accurately classifying and making sense of each new species.
