Rare ‘headless chicken monster’ spotted deep in Southern Ocean

For the first time in the depths of the Southern Ocean, scientists have spotted an unusual deep-sea creature nicknamed as the ‘headless chicken monster’.

In a first, using camera technology made by Australian Antarctic Division (AAD), Australian researchers have filmed a rare deep-sea creature called Enypniastes eximia sea cucumber, more commonly known as the ‘headless chicken monster’.

The creature is usually found is the waters of Gulf of Mexico. AAD Program Leader Dirk Welsford expressed, “Some of the footage we are getting back from the cameras is breathtaking, including species we have never seen in this part of the world.”

Described by CNET, the scarlet-colored creature features wing-like webbing on its sides that helps it swim. In place of its head, there’s nothing but a circular ring of tentacles.

Video Courtesy: AusAntarctic

As per Business Insider, the creature was found in 3km of water via an underwater camera system that can withstand extreme conditions and is developed for commercial long-line fishing. Welsford described the camera system saying, “We needed something that could be thrown from the side of a boat and would continue operating reliably under extreme pressure in the pitch black for long periods of time.

“The cameras are providing important information about areas of sea floor that can withstand this type of fishing, and sensitive areas that should be avoided.”

Australian commissioner Gillian Slocum said that the country will continue leading on the most highlighted issues faced by the Southern Ocean such as biodiversity conservation, climate change and science-based fisheries management.

“The Southern Ocean is home to an incredible abundance and variety of marine life, including commercially sought-after species, the harvesting of which must be carefully managed for future generations,” said Slocum.