GoKawiilUBC researchers identify two new sea spider species in Salish Sea
A study published in Organisms Diversity & Evolution by University of British Columbia researchers documents seven sea spider species found in the Salish Sea, including two previously undescribed ones alongside five known species. The team collected specimens from depths of up to about 60 feet and used scanning electron microscopy and DNA analysis to classify them. One new species, Callipallene pilosuspedes, was named for its hairy, sensory-hair-covered mouthparts.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
This marks the first time in a century that new sea spider species have been identified in the region, suggesting the Salish Sea's biodiversity remains incompletely cataloged even in well-studied coastal waters. The findings could prompt further surveys of shallow marine habitats that researchers may have previously overlooked for novel species discovery.
- Study published in Organisms Diversity & Evolution describes seven Salish Sea sea spider species, two newly identified.
- This is the first discovery of new sea spider species in the region in 100 years.
- Researchers used scanning electron microscopy and DNA analysis on specimens from shallow depths up to 60 feet.
Source: nautil.us — Devin Reese, 2026-10-02
Published there as: “There's a New Sea Spider in Town”
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