In the depths of the ocean, a group of small organisms lives in close relation to the seabed. This group, known as suprabenthos, is characterized by alternating periods of activity swimming over the sediment and moving across it.
It is mainly composed of tiny crustaceans, including:
– Amphipods, known for their relation to beach fleas.
– Isopods, similar to woodlice.
– Cumaceans, whose shape resembles a comma.
– Mysids, small shrimps that are food for seahorses.
## How suprabenthos is studied
Due to the difficulty of accessing these species, specialized sampling methods have been developed since the late 20th century.
One of the most effective devices has been the suprabenthic sled, a structure similar to a box that glides over the seabed, towed by an oceanographic vessel.
The sled features a butterfly net-like nylon mesh that filters the water and captures species larger than 0.5 mm. Once on the surface, the nets are washed, and the samples are collected for detailed analysis.
## Crustaceans with marsupium: peracarids and their reproduction
All suprabenthic crustaceans share a unique characteristic: they have a marsupium, similar to kangaroos.
Females develop a special structure between their legs where they incubate the eggs until larval development is complete.
This trait defines their taxonomic group, peracarids, known as “crustaceans with pouch.” In addition to amphipods, isopods, cumaceans, and mysids, this group includes seven more orders of crustaceans.
From an ecological perspective, parental care increases the survival rate but reduces the dispersal capacity of these species, unlike other marine invertebrates whose larvae move through the water column.
As a result, peracarids present a higher number of endemic species, limited to specific locations.
## Importance of suprabenthos in marine ecosystems
Suprabenthos not only exhibits high biodiversity but also plays a key role in ecological balance.
Its functions include:
– Base of the marine food chain, being food for fish and other crustaceans.
– Recycling of organic matter, facilitating nutrient availability for sponges and corals.
– Control of benthic composition, regulating the ocean floor ecosystem.
## Recent discoveries in suprabenthos
The use of suprabenthic sleds is revealing new previously unknown species.
In the Marine Protected Area of El Cachucho, in the deep waters of Asturias, 47 unpublished species have been identified.
In the oceanographic campaign KANADEEP2, studying samples from the southern Pacific at 3,676 meters deep, it is estimated that the number of new species could exceed a hundred.
## Challenges in species classification
The species description process is complex and requires the work of specialized taxonomists, biodiversity experts.
Paradoxically, these professionals are endangered, as they have little funding and recognition.
## A window into the unknown world of the ocean
Technological advances are allowing to explore the seabed like never before, revealing ecosystems and species that remained hidden.
Each discovery reinforces the importance of continuing to research life in the ocean, a universe yet to be fully discovered.
