Overview
A deep-ocean expedition, employing a crewed submersible, has identified a significant concentration of fossil whale bones at depths of 7 kilometers. This collection features fossils estimated to be up to 5 million years old and encompasses species not previously documented by science. The site has been characterized as a deep-ocean 'necropolis' due to the vast quantity of remains.
Approach
The research involved direct observation and investigation of the deep-sea environment. A crewed submersible was deployed to a depth of 7 kilometers, enabling the researchers to access and examine the seafloor. The methodology focused on identifying and analyzing fossilized whale remains within this extreme deep-ocean setting.
Findings
- A large assemblage of whale bones was discovered at 7 kilometers deep.
- The fossil collection included bones dating back as far as 5 million years.
- Among the discovered fossils were specimens representing species new to science.