Scientists identify new deep-sea sea slug species off California coast after 20 years of research

Scientists have identified a new species of deep-sea sea slug, named Bathydevius caudactylus, after studying it for over 20 years. The creature was first spotted in 2000 off the coast of Monterey, California, at depths exceeding 8,000 feet. The research team from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute used advanced underwater technology to observe the slug, which is unique for living in the ocean's midnight zone. This species is the first known nudibranch to inhabit such deep waters. The sea slug uses bioluminescence for defense and has a specialized feeding method. Researchers have documented its behavior and published their findings in the December 2024 edition of Deep-Sea Research Part I.