Hundreds of new marine species have been found on Australia’s coral reefs, surprising biologists worldwide.  The first systematic scientific inventory of spectacular soft corals in the region showed around 300 soft coral species, half of which are believed new to science; nearly one hundred small crustacean species; and an unusual amphipod of the Maxillipiidae family.  This creature has a whip-like back leg that is almost three times the size of its body.

The great biodiversity of reefs are in danger.

Also found were a new species of tanaid crustaceans, which are shrimp-like creatures with claws that are larger than their bodies; and a beautiful, rare Cassiopeia jellyfish.”

Between 40 and 60 percent of the tiny amphipod crustaceans listed, in the survey will be formally described for the first time.  This truly earns them the title of the insects of the marine world.  Other major finds included potentially new worm species, known as bristle worms.  They are relatives of leeches and earth worms. As many as two-thirds of species found at Lizard Island alone were believed new to science.

Corals face threats ranging from ocean acidification, pollution, and warming to overfishing and global warming, and this is all the more reason to protect them.  They are an amazing source of biodiversity and beauty that should never be lost, but is on the brink of destruction.