We’ve all heard about wild underwater discoveries, but nothing prepared scientists (or the internet) for what they found deep in the South Atlantic recently: a starfish that looks eerily similar to a certain famous cartoon character. Yep—Patrick Star from SpongeBob SquarePants just got a deep-sea doppelgänger.
But that’s just the beginning of this jaw-dropping expedition that revealed over 40 brand-new species from the mysterious depths. Let’s cut into this fascinating discovery.
Patrick
The discovery happened during a deep-sea expedition in the Mar del Plata submarine canyon, located more than 4,000 meters beneath the surface. Scientists were using a robotic vehicle named SuBastian to look and live-stream footage from this unexplored region off the coast of Argentina.
And then it happened—a plump, pinkish starfish with short arms and a round body appeared on screen. Instantly, everyone watching online made the connection: it looked just like Patrick Star.
The starfish belongs to the Hippasteria family, and while it made the internet laugh, scientists believe its body shape might actually help it survive in the harsh deep-sea environment—possibly by storing energy or helping it stick to rocky surfaces where food is rare.
Species
Although the “Patrick” starfish stole the spotlight, it was just one of over 40 new species discovered during the mission. Here’s a snapshot of some of the others:
| Species Type | Notable Feature |
|---|---|
| Carnivorous sponges | Trap prey using ultra-fine filaments |
| Translucent fish | Organs visible through their transparent skin |
| Colorful corals | Glowed like sculptures in total darkness |
| Unique crustaceans | Adapted to life in untouched deep-sea sediments |
These discoveries prove that even at extreme depths, life not only survives—it thrives.
Canyon
The Mar del Plata canyon is part of the South Atlantic, a region that hasn’t been looked as deeply as other oceans. Why? Because going 4,000 meters deep is like traveling to another planet. There’s no sunlight, near-freezing temperatures, and crushing pressure.
But SuBastian made it possible. It navigated this alien world and transmitted real-time footage of otherworldly marine life—ghostly fish, crystal-like corals, and that now-famous starfish who was ready for its close-up.
Value
While it’s fun to joke about a starfish that looks like a cartoon character, scientists say the true value of this expedition lies in what it teaches us. These species could play vital roles in:
- Regulating Earth’s climate via deep-sea carbon cycles
- Supporting marine ecosystems as part of complex food chains
- Fueling medical and biotech innovation with unique biological compounds
Every new species discovered is like adding a missing piece to a giant puzzle of how the deep ocean works—and how it keeps our planet healthy.
Fun
Still, the starfish went viral for a reason. It’s a reminder that science doesn’t always have to be serious. Sometimes, a curious little creature from the bottom of the ocean can inspire millions to learn about ocean conservation.
This funny yet fascinating moment also shows us something else: Earth still holds plenty of mysteries. Even in 2025, we’re still uncovering strange and beautiful lifeforms that have gone unnoticed for centuries.
So next time you hear about space exploration, don’t forget—we still have unexplored worlds right here beneath the waves.
FAQs
Where was the starfish discovered?
In the Mar del Plata submarine canyon, 4,000 meters deep.
Why does the starfish look like Patrick?
It has a rounded body and stubby arms, like the cartoon.
How many new species were found?
More than 40 never-seen species were discovered.
What is SuBastian?
A robotic vehicle used for deep-sea exploration.
Why are these discoveries important?
They help us understand deep-sea ecosystems and their impact.
