Scientists have discovered 30 new deep-sea species, including a carnivorous “death ball” sponge unlike anything seen before.

The expedition explored volcanic craters and oceanic trenches near the South Sandwich Islands, revealing a hidden world of strange creatures.

Among the findings were iridescent scale worms, new species of sea stars, and the first confirmed footage of a juvenile colossal squid.

To tell us about these fascinating discoveries, Dr Michelle Taylor from the Ocean Census project joins us on the line…

Image: Schmidt Ocean Institute