A recent study revealed new two species of pygmy squids in Japan. The area is rich in coral reef systems and marine animals.
The marine environment is home to various species known and unknown to science. Discovering new species is not always an easy journey due to cost and animal elusiveness.
However, advanced technology and monitoring have assisted experts in locating new species in the oceans and other bodies of water. It will help to improve conservation and protection efforts amidst the threats of climate change and habitat loss.
Unique Two Pygmy Squids Uncovered in Japan
A photo of Okinawa, Japan aquarium. Researchers uncovered new species of elusive pygmy squids in the Ryukyu, Japan. The area is rich in seagrass beds and coral reefs.
The study findings were published in the Marine Biology journal. Experts from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and other universities worked together to uncover the unknown species of pygmy squid.
The researchers discovered the new two pygmy squids despite their elusive behavior. According to the report, the new species are known as the following:
- Ryukyuan Pygmy Squid, Idiosepius kijimuna
- Hannan's Pygmy Squid, Kodama jujutsu
In addition, the term jujutsu is derived from the term gentle art, which is mostly used in Japanese martial arts. Meanwhile, Idiosepius kijimuna name came from the red-haired forest fairies living in Okinawa's banyan trees.
The pygmy squids are considered smaller than other Cephalopods, making them more challenging to catch and monitor. In the discovery, the Kodama jujutsu was located in the coral reefs and observed in portions of Okinawa.
In terms of finding prey, the said pygmy squids can hunt by attacking the prey's dorsal side. The Ryukyuan Pygmy Squid can quickly swim underwater. They like to consume smaller prey. The species can mate in the said head-to-head position.
In addition to the behaviors, the Ryukyuan Pygmy Squid could appear during the winter. Jeffrey Jolly, the study's co-author, worked to document the new species with collaboration from other experts and photographers. Jolly is also from the Marine Climate Change Unit at OIST.
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Threats of Pygmy Squid Species
Similar to other marine animals, the pygmy squids can be threatened by climate change and rise in surface temperatures. It can result in coral bleaching that can affect their habitats and prey. It will become more challenging for animals to survive underwater due to climate change.
Moreover, habitat loss, human activity and overfishing threaten their population. As a result, monitoring is essential to prevent devastating impacts on their numbers and avoid any brink of extinction.
Reducing of greenhouse gas emissions is vital to mitigate the effects of climate change. As El Nino begins, it can likely worsen the heat underwater. Animals are sensitive to changing temperatures, which could likely result in deaths.
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