Discovery of Dulcibella Camanchaca Research

Prelims-Species (GS I – Environment)

Context:

A recent discovery in the Atacama Trench has reshaped existing knowledge about deep-sea ecosystems, with the identification of Dulcibella camanchaca—a newly classified predatory amphipod.

About Dulcibella Camanchaca

• New Species Identified:
  • A previously unknown amphipod species was found at a depth of 7,902 meters in the Atacama Trench.
  • It belongs to an entirely new genus, highlighting the rich biodiversity of the deep sea.
• Distinctive Predatory Behavior:
  • Unlike most amphipods, which are scavengers, this species is a hunter, making it the first predator recorded in the hadal zone (depths beyond 6,000 meters).
• Physical Characteristics & Adaptations:
  • Despite measuring less than 4 cm, it demonstrates exceptional predatory skills.
  • Possesses specialized raptorial appendages, allowing it to capture prey in an environment where food is extremely scarce.
• Extreme Survival Capabilities:
  • Thrives in intense pressure, near-freezing temperatures, and absolute darkness—conditions that define the deepest oceanic trenches.