Mushy, Gushy and Sometimes Squishy: Soft-bodied Creatures of Johnston Atoll
Album compiled by Science Communication Fellow Stephanie Weinger
In the deep ocean over 1000 meters below the surface, temperatures are low and pressures are high. Many soft-bodied creatures that may look mushy and gushy have developed unique adaptations to remain dense and firm under the right conditions. While scientists aren’t exactly sure why so many deep-sea species coevolved soft, near-translucent bodies, many theories exist on how this adaptation helped them thrive in the deep. For example, softer bodies help reduce the need for additional energy intake since there is less muscle mass or they may able to withstand higher pressures better.
On expedition NA153, a biological and geological exploration of Johnston Atoll, scientists aboard E/V Nautilus encountered a wide range of creatures that at first glance, appear to have mushy, gushy – and sometimes squishy – bodies.
Let’s dive in.
Deep Sea Biodiversity & Ancient Seamount Exploration near Johnston Atoll
In August 2023, we will return to the Central Pacific for 27 days of exploration within the Johnston Atoll Unit of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (PRIMNM), starting and ending in Honolulu.