Scientists Study Mysterious 'Purple Sock' Sea Creature
- 8 years ago
Recently discovered species of the Xenoturbella genus have cleared up confusion about where on the ‘tree of life’ the creatures belong.
For roughly 60 years, scientists have been befuddled by where on the ‘tree of life’ Xenoturbella, a rather mysterious creature of the sea, belongs.
Recently discovered species of the genus, which are described by researchers as resembling purple socks, have significantly cleared up the confusion.
Genetic testing revealed the animal resides on a low, early developing branch.
The 4 specimens that unlocked the discovery were gathered in the Pacific Ocean.
For roughly 60 years, scientists have been befuddled by where on the ‘tree of life’ Xenoturbella, a rather mysterious creature of the sea, belongs.
Recently discovered species of the genus, which are described by researchers as resembling purple socks, have significantly cleared up the confusion.
Genetic testing revealed the animal resides on a low, early developing branch.
The 4 specimens that unlocked the discovery were gathered in the Pacific Ocean.