Scientists have discovered three new species of sea spiders off the US West Coast, each about the size of a grain of rice, that team up with bacteria to feed on methane seeping from the ocean floor. The unique relationship allows the bacteria to convert methane and oxygen into sugars and fats, which are consumed by the spiders.
The symbiosis is beneficial for both parties, providing a reliable source of nutrition for the bacteria while also helping to reduce the release of greenhouse gas methane into the atmosphere. Unlike other sea spiders, these Sericosura species lack appendages for capturing food and instead “farm” their own bacteria.
Lead author Shana Goffredi notes that even tiny animals like these play a significant role in deep-sea ecosystems and may inspire methods for reducing water contamination elsewhere. The discovery highlights the importance of biodiversity in specific habitats and emphasizes the need to carefully consider the impact of human activities on seafloor ecosystems, such as mining.
Source: https://www.newser.com/story/370601/new-sea-spider-species-feast-on-methane-bacteria.html