Expedition Charts Cook Islands Seafloor Amid Mining Concerns
Thousands of meters beneath the ocean surface, a camera on a remotely operated vehicle recorded a ghostly white creature gliding over a plain of polymetallic nodules—mineral-rich rocks resembling blackened potatoes. The creature’s orchid-shaped fins moved gracefully, with spindly tentacles trailing behind.
Rare Bigfin Squid Encounter
This extraordinary animal was a bigfin squid (genus Magnapinna), a rarely seen species that scientists have observed fewer than two dozen times and have never captured physically.
“One of the cool things about the Nautilus is that there’s a lot of people following online, watching in real time and sending in comments,” said Adam Soule, geologist and oceanographer directing the U.S.-based Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute leading the expedition on the vessel E/V Nautilus.
Expedition and Funding Details
- The expedition is operated by the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute and the Ocean Exploration Trust.
- They are supported by a 10-year, $200 million grant from the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Significance of the Expedition
The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of the Cook Islands seafloor and emphasizes the importance of careful study amid mounting scrutiny over potential mining interests.
“The bigfin squid sighting generated a rush of excitement,” noted Adam Soule, underscoring the unique nature of the encounter.
Author's summary: The expedition exploring the Cook Islands seafloor revealed a rare bigfin squid, emphasizing the need for environmental caution amid growing mining debates.