38 Bizarre Deep-Sea Creatures Scientists Discovered in the Last Decade

Home Animals 38 Bizarre Deep-Sea Creatures Scientists Discovered in the Last Decade

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By Chuvic - June 19, 2025

The deep sea remains one of Earth’s final frontiers—a realm cloaked in perpetual darkness and teeming with secrets. Thanks to cutting-edge advances in submersible technology and remote-operated vehicles, scientists have ventured deeper than ever before, unveiling an astonishing array of lifeforms once thought impossible. From glowing predators to gelatinous oddities, the creatures lurking below challenge our understanding of what life can be. Join us as we descend into the abyss and meet 38 of the strangest deep-sea creatures discovered in the last decade.

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1. E.T. Sponge (Advhena magnifica)

38 Bizarre Deep-Sea Creatures Scientists Discovered in the Last Decade — Source: flickr.com

Discovered in 2016, the E.T. Sponge immediately drew attention for its uncanny resemblance to the famous alien from cinema. With a translucent, bulbous head perched atop a slender stalk, this sponge looks more like a visitor from another world than a sea creature. Its ghostly appearance and delicate structure have made it an icon among recent discoveries. For more details about this bizarre find, visit NOAA’s official site.

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2. The Faceless Cusk

The Faceless Cusk is a ghostly fish that stunned researchers with its eerie, featureless face—lacking visible eyes or a mouth. Rediscovered off the coast of Australia in 2017, this peculiar creature defies expectations of what a fish should look like. Its unusual appearance hints at the extreme adaptations required for life in the deep sea’s pitch-black environment. Learn more about this enigmatic species at the Australian Museum.

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3. The Dumbo Octopus (Grimpoteuthis imperator)

Named for its adorable, ear-like fins that resemble the beloved Disney character, the Dumbo octopus mesmerizes all who see it. Discovered at astonishing depths in 2020, this gelatinous marvel glides through the water with a whimsical grace, propelling itself by flapping its “ears.” Its soft, translucent body and playful movements set it apart from most other cephalopods, making it a favorite among deep-sea enthusiasts. For a closer look at this enchanting creature, visit Smithsonian Magazine.

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4. Hoff Crab (Kiwa tyleri)

Discovered near hydrothermal vents in 2012, the Hoff crab stands out for its hairy, “chest”-like setae that amusingly evoke actor David Hasselhoff. This unique adaptation isn’t just for show—the crab uses its furry chest to farm bacteria, which it scrapes off for nourishment in the nutrient-scarce deep sea. For more fascinating details about this quirky crustacean, visit The Guardian.

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5. Zombie Worm (Osedax priapus)

The Zombie Worm is a master of macabre dining, discovered in the 2010s feasting on whale bones scattered across the seafloor. With a root-like body, it secretes acids to dissolve bone and access the rich nutrients inside—a rare and remarkable adaptation in the animal kingdom. This worm’s unique lifestyle has intrigued scientists and challenged our notions of survival in the deep. Read more about the Zombie Worm at National Geographic.

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6. The Ruby Seadragon (Phyllopteryx dewysea)

Officially identified in 2015, the Ruby Seadragon dazzled scientists with its brilliant red coloration and deepwater habitat off the coast of Australia. Unlike the leafy and weedy seadragons found in shallower waters, this rare species thrives in the darker depths, where its color helps it blend in. Its discovery not only expanded our understanding of seadragon diversity, but also highlighted how much remains hidden in the ocean’s depths. Find more details at BBC News.

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7. The Deep-Sea Hatchetfish (Argyropelecus sp.)

Newly described species within the Deep-Sea Hatchetfish genus have stunned researchers with their intense bioluminescence and strikingly thin, razor-edged bodies. Their shimmering, reflective scales act as natural camouflage, blending seamlessly into the deep ocean’s inky darkness. These adaptations make them elusive and difficult to spot, highlighting the ingenuity of deep-sea evolution. Discover more about these glowing marvels at Science Daily.

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8. The Ghost Shark (Hydrolagus erithacus)

Officially described in 2017, the Ghost Shark is a pale, ethereal fish with a distinctive long, pointed snout and a hauntingly spectral appearance. Unlike typical sharks, its cartilaginous body glides silently through the deep Atlantic waters near South Africa, adapting perfectly to the cold, dark abyss. Its eerie look has captivated marine biologists and deep-sea enthusiasts alike. Delve deeper into the world of the Ghost Shark at Live Science.

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9. The Ninja Lanternshark (Etmopterus benchleyi)

The Ninja Lanternshark, discovered off the coast of Central America in 2015, is as mysterious as its name suggests. Its pitch-black skin absorbs nearly all light, while its body emits subtle bioluminescent glows, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the faint illumination of the deep ocean. This rare form of camouflage helps it avoid predators and sneak up on prey. For more on this shadowy marvel, visit National Geographic.

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10. The Giant Grenadier (Albatrossia pectoralis)

Recent studies have documented Giant Grenadier populations reaching impressive sizes and exhibiting distinctive benthic, or bottom-dwelling, behaviors. These massive fish are not just deep-sea giants—they’re also critical players in the ocean’s food web, serving as both predator and prey. Their unique adaptations allow them to thrive in the cold, dark depths. Discover more about the ecological importance of grenadiers at NOAA Fisheries.

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11. The Spiny King Crab (Paralomis hirtella)

Described in 2017, the Spiny King Crab is a formidable resident of cold, deep-sea habitats. Its robust, armored carapace is covered in sharp spikes, offering both protection and a striking appearance. This well-defended crustacean is an excellent example of deep-sea adaptation, thriving in frigid, high-pressure environments. For more details about this spiky marvel, check out the coverage at Science Advances.

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12. The Ping-Pong Tree Sponge (Chondrocladia lampadiglobus)

The Ping-Pong Tree Sponge, discovered in 2012, stands out with its bizarre, ball-shaped spheres that resemble tiny ping-pong balls. Unlike most sponges, it’s carnivorous—these spheres act as traps for small animals, which are then digested for nutrients. This rare feeding strategy highlights the incredible diversity of survival tactics in the deep sea. For more about this unusual and captivating sponge, explore Smithsonian Ocean.

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13. The Deep-Sea Lizardfish (Bathysaurus ferox)

The Deep-Sea Lizardfish is a formidable predator, boasting a mouth lined with needle-sharp teeth and a long, streamlined body built for ambush. Recent observations at unprecedented depths highlight this species’ remarkable adaptability to the harsh, high-pressure environment of the deep ocean. It lurks patiently on the seafloor, waiting to strike at unsuspecting prey, embodying the relentless nature of deep-sea survival. Learn more about this fierce hunter at Nature.

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14. The Yeti Crab (Kiwa sp. nov.)

New Yeti Crab species have emerged from the deep in recent years, each sporting a thick coat of bristly setae on their claws. These unusual “hairy” appendages serve a fascinating purpose—the crabs use them to cultivate bacteria, which they then consume as a primary food source. This remarkable adaptation allows them to thrive in nutrient-poor environments. For more on these fuzzy and fascinating crustaceans, visit Deep Sea News.

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15. The Elusive Giant Amphipod (Alicella gigantea)

During recent deep-sea expeditions, scientists encountered giant amphipods—crustaceans reaching the size of large prawns, a startling contrast to their usually tiny relatives. Found at extreme depths, these oversized amphipods showcase just how dramatically deep-sea conditions can influence growth and adaptation. Their unexpected size and resilience have made them a fascinating subject for marine biologists. Learn more about these deep-sea giants at New Scientist.

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16. The Deep-Sea Dumpling Squid (Euprymna berryi)

The Deep-Sea Dumpling Squid is a charming oddity, recently observed at depths deeper than ever before. Its compact, rounded body and scattered bioluminescent spots give it an almost whimsical appearance, setting it apart from its relatives. These glowing patterns not only help it hide from predators but also make it a standout among deep-sea cephalopods. Find additional information about this peculiar squid at Science News.

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17. The Blobfish (Psychrolutes marcidus)

Although long known to science, the blobfish was only recently photographed alive in its deep-sea habitat, revealing its truly gelatinous and almost cartoon-like appearance. This jiggly fish’s odd form is perfectly suited to withstand the crushing pressures of its deep environment. Seeing the blobfish in its natural state has delighted both scientists and the public alike. For more on this iconic creature, visit the Australian Museum.

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18. The Deep-Sea Dragonfish (Stomiidae sp.)

Recently discovered species of deep-sea dragonfish have astonished researchers with their bizarre light organs and fearsome, oversized teeth. These adaptations allow them to lure and ambush prey in the impenetrable darkness of the deep ocean, making them highly efficient hunters. Their bioluminescent displays are not only mesmerizing but also a testament to the evolutionary ingenuity found in the abyss. Explore more about these fierce predators at Wired.

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19. The Gummy Squirrel (Psychropotes longicauda)

The Gummy Squirrel is a peculiar sea cucumber, instantly recognizable by its gelatinous body and unusually elongated, tail-like appendage. Recent submersible missions have spotted this strange creature at greater depths than ever before, further revealing the vast diversity of deep-sea life. Its soft, flexible body allows it to thrive in the extreme pressure of the abyss. For more on this delightfully odd animal, see The Atlantic.

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20. The Venus Flytrap Anemone (Actinoscyphia aurelia)

The Venus Flytrap Anemone is aptly named for its remarkable resemblance to the terrestrial plant. Unlike most anemones, it can snap shut on unsuspecting prey that drifts too close, making it a fearsome predator in the deep Gulf of Mexico. This rare feeding behavior sets it apart from its relatives and highlights the inventive survival strategies of deep-sea dwellers. Learn more about this captivating anemone at NOAA.

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21. The Deep-Sea Glass Squid (Cranchiidae sp.)

Newly described species of deep-sea glass squid have bodies so transparent they’re nearly invisible in the water column. This striking adaptation helps them avoid predators in the vast, open midwater zone of the deep sea. Their delicate, ghostly appearance has fascinated marine biologists and highlights the ingenuity of nature’s camouflage. Find out more about these remarkable squids at Ocean Conservancy.

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22. The Deep-Sea Anglerfish (Lasiognathus dinema)

Recently discovered species of deep-sea anglerfish have further amazed scientists with their grotesque, fang-filled mouths and bizarre bioluminescent lures. In the pitch-black depths, these glowing appendages dangle like fishing rods, attracting unsuspecting prey right to their waiting jaws. Their nightmarish appearance and extraordinary hunting techniques highlight the extremes of deep-sea evolution. For more on these fascinating predators, see the coverage at Science.

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23. The Pink See-Through Fantasia (Enypniastes eximia)

The Pink See-Through Fantasia is a mesmerizing sea cucumber, named for its glassy, transparent body that reveals its inner organs as it glides gracefully through the deep sea. Recently captured by deep-sea cameras, its ethereal and almost otherworldly appearance has fascinated scientists and the public alike. This rare creature offers a peek into the inner workings of deep-sea life. Learn more about this stunning find at CNN.

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24. The Deep-Sea Feather Star (Florometra sp.)

Recently discovered species of deep-sea feather stars enchant with their elegant, feathery arms that ripple and flutter like underwater ferns. These delicate echinoderms can swim or crawl along the seafloor, using their arms to capture drifting particles of food. Their graceful movements and intricate forms make them a highlight of recent deep-sea exploration. For more on these captivating creatures, visit MBARI.

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25. The Crocodile Toothfish (Chionobathyscus dewitti)

The Crocodile Toothfish was discovered lurking in the frigid, shadowy depths of Antarctica. Its most striking feature is a set of jagged jaws that evoke the fearsome bite of a crocodile—an impressive adaptation for ambushing prey in such a challenging environment. This deep-sea predator thrives where few others can survive, showcasing the extremes of evolution beneath the ice. Find more information about this formidable fish at Antarctic Sun.

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26. The Harp Sponge (Chondrocladia lyra)

Described in 2012, the Harp Sponge astonished scientists with its beautifully branching, harp-like structure. This unusual form is not just decorative—it is highly specialized for snaring small crustaceans carried by deep-sea currents. Sticky filaments along its “strings” capture prey, making the harp sponge one of the deep’s most fascinating carnivorous sponges. To explore more about this remarkable organism, visit MBARI.

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27. The Deep-Sea Batfish (Halieutichthys aculeatus)

The Deep-Sea Batfish stands out with its flattened body and modified fins, which act like stumpy legs for “walking” along the ocean floor. This unique mode of movement is a rare and fascinating adaptation among fishes, perfectly suited for life on the deep-sea bottom. Its peculiar appearance and behavior have intrigued marine explorers. Learn more about the batfish’s special adaptations at NOAA.

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28. The Christmas Tree Worm (Spirobranchus giganteus)

The Christmas Tree Worm dazzles with its vibrant, spiral-shaped appendages, resembling tiny underwater holiday decorations. While long known from shallower reefs, recent deep-water sightings have revealed this worm’s impressive adaptability to extreme environments. Its colorful spirals serve as both breathing apparatus and feeding tools, capturing plankton from passing currents. Discover more about this festive and resilient creature at Smithsonian Ocean.

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29. The Sea Devil (Melanocetus johnsonii)

Recently captured on film alive for the first time, the Sea Devil is a haunting symbol of the deep. The female’s enormous, gaping mouth and bioluminescent lure make it a master of ambush, attracting prey in total darkness. Its fearsome appearance and hunting prowess are perfect examples of deep-sea adaptation. For more on this rarely seen predator, visit Nature.

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30. The Deep-Sea Jelly (Deepstaria enigmatica)

The Deep-Sea Jelly, Deepstaria enigmatica, mesmerizes with its transparent, undulating “sheet” body that moves like flowing silk through the water. Recently filmed wrapping itself around prey, this jelly’s ghostly and flexible form distinguishes it from more familiar jellyfish species. Its haunting appearance and unusual feeding strategy continue to intrigue deep-sea explorers. Learn more about this enigmatic creature at Ocean Exploration Trust.

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31. The Fangtooth Fish (Anoplogaster cornuta)

Recent research has uncovered new population data on the Fangtooth Fish, a deep-sea predator infamous for its grotesquely oversized teeth—proportionally the largest of any fish. Its menacing jaws and compact body make it a formidable hunter in the ocean’s inky depths. Despite its nightmarish looks, it plays a key role in the deep-sea food web. Discover more about the fangtooth at National Geographic.

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32. The Barreleye Fish (Macropinna microstoma)

The Barreleye Fish is one of the ocean’s strangest sights, with a transparent, dome-like head and tubular, upward-facing eyes. In the past decade, scientists have filmed this elusive fish in action, revealing how its unique anatomy helps it spot prey silhouetted above. Its eerie, glassy head and alien-like gaze have fascinated both researchers and the public. Explore more about this bizarre fish at MBARI.

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33. The Deep-Sea Dumpling Starfish (Astropecten sp.)

The recently discovered Deep-Sea Dumpling Starfish boasts a squat, rounded body that sets it apart from typical starfish. Its unusual, almost rolling mode of locomotion has been observed at extreme abyssal depths, revealing new possibilities for starfish adaptation. This quirky echinoderm adds yet another layer to the complexity of life in the ocean’s darkest reaches. Find more about this fascinating species at Deep Sea Research.

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34. The Glass Octopus (Vitreledonella richardi)

The Glass Octopus is an extraordinary marvel of transparency—almost every part of its delicate body is see-through, allowing its internal organs to be observed in stunning detail. Recent footage has unveiled new behaviors, including its graceful swimming style and subtle movements, deepening our understanding of this elusive cephalopod. The glass octopus’s ghostly appearance and rarity make it a true wonder of the deep. Read more about this enigmatic creature at Science News.

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35. The Deep-Sea Goblin Shark (Mitsukurina owstoni)

Known for its nightmarish appearance, the Deep-Sea Goblin Shark gained fresh attention in the 2010s when live sightings and genetic studies revealed more about its biology. Its protruding, slingshot-like jaws and pale pink skin make it one of the ocean’s most bizarre predators. This enigmatic shark, rarely seen alive, has become a symbol of the deep sea’s evolutionary oddities. Learn more at National Geographic.

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36. The Frilled Shark (Chlamydoselachus anguineus)

Dubbed a ‘living fossil’, the Frilled Shark was recently filmed at previously uncharted depths, offering new insights into its mysterious existence. With a long, snake-like body and distinctive frilled gills, this ancient predator closely resembles its prehistoric ancestors. Its eerie, undulating movement and rarity make every sighting a notable event. Discover more about this fascinating relic at Live Science.

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37. The Sea Pig (Scotoplanes globosa)

The Sea Pig is a bulbous, pink sea cucumber that scuttles across the abyssal plains, often seen in large herds as they scour the seafloor for organic debris. Recent research has uncovered new species within this group and documented fascinating examples of group behavior, highlighting their social tendencies in the deep. With their peculiar shape and gentle movements, sea pigs have become icons of deep-sea exploration. Learn more at Smithsonian Ocean.

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38. The Deep-Sea Blue Dragon (Pteraeolidia ianthina)

The Deep-Sea Blue Dragon is a striking nudibranch, famous for its radiant blue coloration and intricate, feathery appendages that ripple as it glides through the water. Recent findings have shown that this dazzling sea slug can survive at far greater depths than once thought, adapting beautifully to the ocean’s twilight zones. Its exotic appearance and unexpected habitat continue to intrigue marine biologists. See more about the blue dragon at BBC Earth.

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Conclusion

The ocean’s mysterious depths have yielded an astonishing array of lifeforms—each more bizarre and fascinating than the last. From transparent squids to glowing sharks and hairy crabs, these discoveries highlight the sheer diversity and adaptability of deep-sea creatures. Yet, we have only glimpsed the ocean’s secrets. Continued exploration is essential for understanding our planet’s largest habitat and protecting its wonders. Let the strangeness below inspire curiosity and support for the vital science that brings the deep sea’s hidden life to light.

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