Pyrolycus jaco
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Pyrolycus jaco is a novel species discovery within the eelpout category, which is part of the Zoarcidae family. These organisms are typically distinguished by their eel-like morphology and, in certain species, facial features that evoke an appearance of "pouting". This species was discovered at Jacó Scar, hydrothermal seep site in the Pacific Ocean. It was the first fish species to be identified at this site and was detailed in a paper published in the journal Zootaxa on January 19. [1][2]
Discovery
The research team led by UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography discovered the species, and the naming was influenced by the unique location of Jacó Scar, leading to the name Pyrolycus jaco.[1]
Description
The Pyrolycus jaco, a species that averages approximately 6 inches in length, is characterized by a hue that transitions between a subtle light pink and lavender on its body. Observations have indicated that the species exhibits a proclivity for residing amidst tubeworms at substantial oceanic depths ranging between 1,750 and 1,800 meters (equivalent to 5,741 to 5,906 feet). The species has unique body proportions that set it apart from similar species.[2]
Habitat
The Jacó Scar seep is an extreme environment with hydrothermal vent-like characteristics, including temperatures up to 5.2°C (41.4°F), which is several degrees warmer than the surrounding deep-sea areas. This habitat appears to make Jacó Scar a haven for certain animals typically found only at hydrothermal vents.[1]
Importance of the Discovery
The discovery of Pyrolycus jaco emphasizes the extensive biodiversity present at Costa Rica's methane seeps. The researchers noted in the Zootaxa paper that the finding illustrates the unique nature of the Jacó Scar ecosystem, which is still being explored. This work underlines the necessity for further study.[1]
Further Studies
The fish was first sighted in 2009 by scientists from Scripps Oceanography in collaboration with the University of Costa Rica. Four eelpout specimens were collected by HOV Alvin in 2018 and were used as the basis for the research paper. [1]
References
- ^ a b c d e "New Species of Deep-Sea Fish Discovered off Costa Rica". today.ucsd.edu. Retrieved 2023-07-23.
- ^ a b Frable, Benjamin W.; Seid, Charlotte A.; Bronson, Allison W.; Møller, Peter Rask (2023-01-19). "A new deep-sea eelpout of the genus Pyrolycus (Teleostei: Zoarcidae) associated with a hydrothermal seep on the Pacific margin of Costa Rica". Zootaxa. 5230 (1): 79–89. doi:10.11646/zootaxa.5230.1.5. ISSN 1175-5334.