A sea spider with hairy legs and red eyes might seem like a creature from a nightmare, but these real-life beings have been discovered in the Salish Sea in southern British Columbia. Researchers, led by Cormac Toller-Scott from the University of British Columbia, found two new species of these ocean-dwelling creatures during dives conducted between September 2023 and August 2024.
The team explored various marine habitats in the region, uncovering unique sea spiders that had not been previously documented. These spiders were observed living on hydroids, consuming them as a source of sustenance. One species, named Callipallene pilosuspedes, derives its name from “hairy feet” due to the spines on its lower legs. The other species, Tanystylum kiixin, was named after an Indigenous village near where it was found.
In a separate study, UBC researchers, led by biologist Shana Goffredi, discovered three sea spider species near methane seeps and hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor. These spiders displayed an exceptional ability to cultivate bacteria that converted methane into essential nutrients. This unexpected finding shed light on the unique ecological roles sea spiders play in their environments.
Toller-Scott emphasized the importance of taxonomic research projects like his, noting their significance in scientific progress. Despite the challenges of funding, such studies are crucial for understanding the biodiversity of regions like the West Coast of Canada, known for its rich marine life. The discoveries of these new sea spider species highlight the vast potential for further exploration and species identification along Canada’s diverse coastline.