Rediscovering Bathochordaeus Charon: The Giant Larvacean Lost and Found

by Rosa September 26, 2021

written by Rosa September 26, 2021

Giant Larvacean, Bathochordaeus Charon: Rediscovered After a Century

Discovery of a Century-Old Mystery

In the late 1890s, biologist Carl Chun embarked on the Valdivia Expedition, where he made an extraordinary discovery: a giant larvacean enveloped in a translucent “snot house.” Dubbed Bathochordaeus charon, this enigmatic creature remained elusive for over a century.

A Rare and Enigmatic Creature

Larvaceans are small, tadpole-shaped tunicates with primitive spinal cords. They construct daily “houses” of sticky mucus to trap food particles. Chun’s larvacean, however, was außergewöhnlich, growing nearly four inches long with a snot house up to three feet across.

Lost and Found

Chun’s original specimens were lost, leading many to doubt his discovery. However, over a century later, researchers at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) found another example of B. charon, confirming its existence.

ROV Expedition Yields Results

During a routine ROV (remotely operated vehicle) mission, senior research technician Rob Sherlock spotted a nine-centimeter-long creature that resembled Chun’s description. Upon examination, Sherlock realized it was the elusive B. charon. Genetic analysis confirmed its identity.

Vindication for Chun

Sherlock’s discovery vindicated Chun’s observations after years of skepticism. Researchers at MBARI reviewed 25 years of ROV footage and found 12 additional instances of B. charon, indicating that while rare, it is not an isolated occurrence.

Solving the Mystery

The discovery of B. charon resolved lingering doubts about Chun’s findings and closed the case of the “slimy ocean blob.” This enigmatic creature remains a testament to the vast and mysterious depths of our oceans.

Additional Insights

B. charon is a giant larvacean that builds a large, sticky “snot house” to trap food.
Its discovery in Monterey Bay confirmed Chun’s observations made over a century ago.
Genetic analysis played a crucial role in identifying the elusive creature.
ROV technology has proven invaluable in exploring the deep sea and uncovering its secrets.
The rediscovery of B. charon highlights the importance of scientific curiosity and perseverance.

Rosa

Rosa is a distinguished software engineer whose passion for science and technology was kindled in her early childhood. Growing up in a household where academic curiosity was nurtured, Rosa was deeply influenced by her father, a dedicated physics professor. After long days at the university, her father would come home and engage Rosa in a world of scientific exploration, guiding her through various experiments and fostering a profound love for the intricacies of the physical world. From a young age, Rosa was captivated by the endless possibilities that science presented. She spent countless hours conducting experiments and learning the fundamental principles of physics. This early exposure to scientific inquiry not only honed her analytical skills but also instilled in her a relentless curiosity and a passion for problem-solving. Rosa's academic journey led her to pursue a degree in Computer Science, where she excelled in her studies, driven by the same enthusiasm that had characterized her childhood experiments. She graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor's degree from a prestigious university. Her academic achievements were marked by numerous accolades and scholarships, reflecting her dedication and exceptional talent in the field. In her professional career, Rosa has made significant contributions to the tech industry. She has worked for several leading technology companies, where she has been instrumental in developing innovative software solutions that have had a substantial impact on various sectors. Her expertise lies in designing and implementing complex algorithms, optimizing system performance, and ensuring the reliability and scalability of software applications. Beyond her technical prowess, Rosa is a strong advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She actively participates in mentorship programs, guiding young women who aspire to pursue careers in technology. Rosa believes in the power of education and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all, and she dedicates her time to speaking at conferences and workshops to inspire the next generation of female engineers. In her personal life, Rosa continues to embrace her scientific roots. She enjoys spending her free time experimenting with new technologies, reading scientific journals, and engaging in discussions about the future of technology. Rosa's journey from a curious child conducting experiments to a successful software engineer is a testament to the power of early exposure to science and the enduring influence of a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.