Scientists have discovered a vast whale graveyard in the southeastern Indian Ocean, the largest and deepest ever found, dating back millions of years. The site, located up to 23,000 feet deep, contains five carcass sites and fossils, including whale skulls.
- The graveyard spans the largest area and is the deepest and oldest known whale fall site. - Marine life such as jellyfish, tubeworms, brittle stars, sea cucumbers, and squat lobsters thrive on the carcasses.
- Many species found are likely new to science, according to a study in Nature. - The bones were preserved due to density, depth, and mineral coatings, avoiding degradation.
This discovery helps scientists understand how life adapts to extreme deep-sea conditions, including high pressure and lack of light.