Colombia’s oceans hold a treasure trove of strange and beautiful creatures. Recently, scientists discovered ctenophores, ancient marine animals with shimmering colors and unique shapes. These delicate beings have existed for hundreds of millions of years, long before dinosaurs walked the Earth. They might look like jellyfish, but they are quite different. Unlike jellyfish, ctenophores don’t sting. They have a special way of catching food using sticky cells called colloblasts.
Juan Mayorga, a marine scientist from National Geographic Pristine Seas, describes how challenging it is to study these creatures. “They dissolve when caught in nets,” he explains. This makes capturing them impossible without damaging them. That’s why researchers used innovative methods like underwater photography to observe them without harm.
In a recent study, Mayorga and his team documented 15 species of ctenophores in Colombian waters, six of which were previously unrecorded. This research fills a crucial gap in our understanding of marine biodiversity. Cristina Cedeño-Posso, the study’s lead author, emphasizes the importance of non-invasive techniques: “These methods strengthen our knowledge of marine life in remote areas.”
Ctenophores play a key role in the ocean’s food web. As carnivores, they feed on plankton, fish eggs, and tiny sea creatures. Their unique feeding method is vital for regulating the population of smaller organisms, which helps maintain balance in marine ecosystems. They themselves become food for larger animals, like fish and turtles.
Recent studies show that ctenophores are becoming more numerous in some areas. According to a 2022 report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, changes in ocean temperature and pollution may be affecting their populations. This shift could have cascading effects on marine life.
The way researchers study ctenophores is changing the game for marine research. Traditional collection methods can harm delicate species, but new techniques allow scientists to gather valuable information without disrupting the ecosystem. This shift not only preserves marine life but also opens new avenues for exploring our oceans. As methods continue to improve, we hope to learn even more about these fascinating creatures and the essential roles they play.
