Key Facts

• The golden orb was found over two miles underwater in the Gulf of Alaska by a remotely operated underwater vehicle.
• The orb was a fibrous material covered with stinging cells called spirocysts, which are only found in a group of animals called cnidarians.
• Scientists compared the orb to a similar specimen found in 2021 and found them to be the same species.
• Initial DNA tests were unclear, but whole-genome sequencing showed the orb was almost genetically identical to Relicanthus daphneae.
• The orb had once been part of the base of a giant sea anemone, whose tentacles can reach six feet long.
• The top part of the anemone was missing; it may have died or moved to another location.
• This discovery shows how DNA technology is helping scientists understand deep-sea life better.
• NOAA explores the ocean to learn more about marine life and how the ocean can support economic growth and national security.