According to findings released Thursday, marine scientists have discovered hundreds of new animal species on reefs in Australian waters. Australian researchers conducted three expeditions, one each in the waters of the Great Barrier Reef's Lizard and Heron islands, and one in the Ningaloo Reef, on Australia's northwest coast. Thousands of samples were collected during the three-week research trips, which took place between April and September.
130 soft corals were found, also known as octocorals, for the eight tentacles that fringe each polyp. Several undescribed crustaceans were also discovered, including tiny shrimp-like animals with claws longer than their bodies.
The project marks the first time any group has made an effort to understand the biodiversity of the Great Barrier Reef, said Ron Johnstone, a marine science professor at the University of Queensland. The scientists' findings could have direct benefits for humans, Johnstone said. Marine life is used in medicines, and the creatures could also provide clues as to how they cope with climate change and pollution.
Click here for the source
