SUMMARY
During a deep-sea expedition in Argentina's Mar del Plata Submarine Canyon, researchers discovered a vivid orange sea star that gained internet fame for its resemblance to the cartoon character Patrick Star. This discovery occurred alongside the identification of 57 previously unknown marine species, including various copepods and echinoderms. The expedition, which utilized the remotely operated vehicle SuBastian, provided the first in-situ observations of the canyon's deep seafloor. Scientists are planning a follow-up expedition to another submarine canyon in February 2027.
TAKEAWAYS
A starfish resembling Patrick Star was photographed during a deep-sea expedition.
Researchers discovered 57 new marine species, including sea cucumbers and copepods.
The starfish gained global fame after being live-streamed to nearly 4 million viewers.
The expedition took place in the Mar del Plata Submarine Canyon off the coast of Argentina.