Scientists recently discovered a new species of marine crustacean in the waters around Vietnam. Inspired by the creature's imposing size and its altogether otherworldly appearance – not least its helmet-like head – they named it after the Star Wars character, Darth Vader.
The huge sea bug (Bathynomus vaderi) joins a group of mysterious deep-sea crustaceans that have remained largely unchanged for millions of years: giant isopods (genus Bathynomus).
First discovered in 1879, these distant relatives of woodlice thrive in the cold, dark depths of the ocean, scavenging for food on the seafloor. Their unusual look, foreboding size and ability to survive in extreme conditions have made them a fascinating subject for marine biologists for decades.
Read on to discover more about these remarkable creatures and their role in deep-sea ecosystems.
What are giant isopods?
Giant isopods are large, bottom-dwelling crustaceans belonging to the order Isopoda. They are closely related to woodlice but have adapted to life in the deep sea.
The largest species, Bathynomus giganteus, can grow more than 30cm long, making it one of the biggest isopods in the world. Their segmented, armoured exoskeleton and multiple legs help them navigate the ocean floor efficiently.
Where do giant isopods live?
These deep-sea scavengers are typically found at depths of 170 to 2,140 metres in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans. They prefer muddy or sandy seafloor habitats, where they can blend in with their surroundings and wait for food to drift down from above. Their ability to survive in extreme pressure, low temperatures and near-total darkness makes them well-suited to deep-sea environments.
What do giant isopods eat?
Giant isopods are opportunistic scavengers that feed on the remains of dead marine animals, including fish, whales and squid. They also consume slow-moving or weakened creatures, such as sea cucumbers and sponges. Their metabolism is incredibly slow, allowing them to survive long periods without food. Some individuals have been observed fasting for up to five years in captivity.
How do giant isopods survive in the deep sea?
These remarkable crustaceans have evolved several adaptations to survive the harsh deep-sea environment. Their large compound eyes are highly sensitive to dim light, helping them detect movement in the darkness. They also have a thick, chitinous exoskeleton that provides protection against predators. Additionally, their ability to store energy from large meals enables them to endure long periods of food scarcity.
Are giant isopods dangerous?
Despite their intimidating appearance, giant isopods are not dangerous to humans. They are slow-moving, reclusive creatures that primarily scavenge for food. However, their powerful, clawed legs allow them to grasp onto prey and scavenge efficiently. In rare cases, they may exhibit cannibalistic behaviour when food is scarce.
Why are giant isopods important to marine ecosystems?
As scavengers, giant isopods play a vital role in deep-sea ecosystems by recycling organic material and preventing the buildup of decaying matter. By consuming dead animals, they help maintain the delicate balance of the deep-sea food web. Their existence also provides insight into the adaptability of life in extreme environments.
Main image: giant isopod/Getty
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