Sea Dandelion(!) and Other Superb Creatures of the Central Pacific
We’re deep into our Luʻuaeaahikiikekumu expedition in and around the Lili’uokalani Ridge Seamounts and we’ve seen all manner of wonderful and whimsical creatures. First up in this highlight video, we have an adorable dumbo octopus undulating in the current and up-close shots of its unique skin texture. Next, it’s a stunning view of the control van-favorite sea dandelion: aka a communal siphonophore super organism. After that, check out a chunky sea star, tiny Chaunacops, and sleek Halosaur. Take a trip to the bottom of the sea and watch these ocean animals interact with ROV Hercules’ camera. With this expedition, we are returning to Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument to build on the accomplishments of the 2021 Luʻuaeaahikiikalipolipo expedition, which mapped the seamounts we’re now surveying for biodiversity.
Learn more about this expedition funded by NOAA Ocean Exploration via the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute with additional support from the NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries.
Luʻuaeaahikiikekumu - Ancient Seamounts of Liliʻuokalani Ridge
This expedition will have E/V Nautilus returning to Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM) to build on the accomplishments of the 2021 Luʻuaeaahikiikalipolipo expedition, which mapped the previously unmapped Liliʻuokalani Ridge Seamounts. The team returns for the first visual exploratory surveys of the seamount chain looking to investigate a puzzling split in the seamount trail.
