Scientists with the Schmidt Ocean Institute have discovered at least four new deep-sea octopus species near Costa Rica.
The team discovered the new species during expeditions in 2023 off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. They found two octopus nurseries near hydrothermal springs during an expedition in June and later returned to confirm the nurseries are active year-round.
One of the new species is being named the Dorado Octopus after the rock outcrop where it was discovered, which is unofficially known as El Dorado Hill. It was the only one of the four species scene brooding its eggs at the hydrothermal springs.
The Dorado Octopus is a subspecies of Muusoctopus and the discovery adds more evidence to the theory that Muusoctopus evolved to brood their eggs in warm springs on the ocean floor.
There are nearly 300 species of octopuses, and the animals are known for being extremely intelligent and mischievous.
In addition to the octopuses, the team also found a deep-sea skate nursery and located three hydrothermal springs.
More than 160 specimens of deep-sea animals collected during the second expedition will be archived at the Museum of Zoology at the University of Costa Rica. Keeping the specimens in Costa Rica instead of shipping them to the U.S. will allow local scientists to access the samples for research.
“The impact of the R/V Falkor (too) expeditions on understanding the deep Pacific waters of Costa Rica will last into the future and hopefully create awareness that evolves into policies to protect the deep sea of the country,” said Dr Jorge Cortés of the University of Costa Rica. “I hope that the expedition serves as an inspiration for new generations. We need more international collaborations to advance knowledge of our deep-sea heritage.”
As well as the four octopus species, the team discovered a skate nursery, calling it the Skate Park, also off the coast of Costa Rica. Three more hydrothermal springs with different fluid temperatures and chemistries were also found in the area, 10 to 30 nautical miles from each other.
“Drs. Cortés and Orcutt formed a team that truly exemplifies international collaboration which empowers scientists within Costa Rica and enriches local knowledge and understanding of the ocean,” said Schmidt Ocean Institute’s Executive Director, Dr. Jyotika Virman
