Discovery of a Century-Old Mystery

In the late 1890s, biologist Carl Chun embarked on the Valdivia Expedition, where he made an extraordinary discovery: a giant larvacean enveloped in a translucent “snot house.” Dubbed Bathochordaeus charon, this enigmatic creature remained elusive for over a century.

A Rare and Enigmatic Creature

Larvaceans are small, tadpole-shaped tunicates with primitive spinal cords. They construct daily “houses” of sticky mucus to trap food particles. Chun’s larvacean, however, was außergewöhnlich, growing nearly four inches long with a snot house up to three feet across.

Lost and Found

Chun’s original specimens were lost, leading many to doubt his discovery. However, over a century later, researchers at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) found another example of B. charon, confirming its existence.

ROV Expedition Yields Results

During a routine ROV (remotely operated vehicle) mission, senior research technician Rob Sherlock spotted a nine-centimeter-long creature that resembled Chun’s description. Upon examination, Sherlock realized it was the elusive B. charon. Genetic analysis confirmed its identity.

Vindication for Chun

Sherlock’s discovery vindicated Chun’s observations after years of skepticism. Researchers at MBARI reviewed 25 years of ROV footage and found 12 additional instances of B. charon, indicating that while rare, it is not an isolated occurrence.

Solving the Mystery

The discovery of B. charon resolved lingering doubts about Chun’s findings and closed the case of the “slimy ocean blob.” This enigmatic creature remains a testament to the vast and mysterious depths of our oceans.

Additional Insights

• B. charon is a giant larvacean that builds a large, sticky “snot house” to trap food.
• Its discovery in Monterey Bay confirmed Chun’s observations made over a century ago.
• Genetic analysis played a crucial role in identifying the elusive creature.
• ROV technology has proven invaluable in exploring the deep sea and uncovering its secrets.
• The rediscovery of B. charon highlights the importance of scientific curiosity and perseverance.