An aquatic, hairy-legged, red-eyed, parasitic sea spider might resemble a creature from a nightmare, but these intriguing beings actually exist on Earth. Recently, researchers uncovered two new species of sea spiders in the Salish Sea region of southern British Columbia. Cormac Toller-Scott from the University of British Columbia led the study, part of his zoology master’s degree program, highlighting the underexplored nature of marine invertebrates in the area. Sea spiders, distinct from land spiders, evolved in the ocean and have remained there throughout their history.
During dives conducted between September 2023 and August 2024 in locations like Quadra Island, Vancouver, Bamfield, and Victoria, Toller-Scott and his team explored marine habitats up to 18 meters deep. By meticulously studying the physical characteristics and genetic data of various sea spider species, they identified two previously unknown species. These sea spiders were found residing on a hydroid, a stationary underwater organism resembling a grounded jellyfish. They feed on the hydroid by consuming bits of it with their proboscis, essentially acting as parasites.
The new species were named Callipallene pilosuspedes, referencing the hairy spines on their lower legs, and Tanystylum kiixin, named after an Indigenous village near their collection site. This discovery adds to the growing knowledge of sea spider diversity in the region. Another recent study by UBC researchers revealed three new sea spider species thriving near methane seeps and hydrothermal vents, showcasing their unique ability to cultivate methane-consuming bacteria.
Despite the significance of taxonomic research projects like this one in advancing scientific understanding, they often lack adequate funding. Toller-Scott emphasized the importance of taxonomy for laying the groundwork for broader scientific inquiries, noting the vast potential for discovering new species, particularly along the diverse coastlines of Western Canada.