Delving into the mysterious world of the deep sea, a team of scientists led by University of Rhode Island Professor Brennan Phillips is embarking on a groundbreaking research project. With a $2.2 million grant from the Ocean Shot Research Grant Program, the team aims to revolutionize the study of fragile deep-sea organisms and potentially uncover new species.

The Team and Technology

Collaborating with researchers from institutions like the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences and Harvard University, Phillips and his team will enhance a novel robotic encapsulation device with a biopsy tool inspired by the mantis shrimp. This tool will allow for non-destructive sampling of gelatinous organisms in the deep sea, providing unprecedented insights into their biology.

The team’s previous work, featured in Science Advances, showcased the successful application of their technology in characterizing deep-sea animals at a genetic level. Building on this foundation, they aim to develop a “catch and release sampling” technique to gather genetic data from deep-sea creatures without harming them.

Challenges and Innovations

Phillips, with his background in biological oceanography, understands the importance of preserving genetic material for accurate analysis. By optimizing the sampling process and utilizing advanced imaging systems, the team plans to extract valuable genetic information from minimal tissue samples.

Moreover, the researchers will employ cutting-edge software to process the complex data generated by their imaging systems. Developing new algorithms and artificial intelligence tools will enable automatic identification of the organisms captured, facilitating taxonomic classification and potentially revealing new species.

Future Expeditions

While the project is still in its planning phase, Phillips anticipates having a working prototype ready by winter. The team’s first expedition is scheduled for late 2026 in the South Atlantic Ocean, where they hope to uncover new insights into the deep-sea ecosystem.

With their innovative approach and state-of-the-art technology, Phillips and his team are set to push the boundaries of deep-sea exploration, shedding light on the hidden wonders of the ocean’s depths.