Furry Lobster Discovered

Posted on March 10, 2006

The BBC reports that scientists have discovered a new species of lobster that has silky hair-like material growing from its claws and legs. It was found south of Easter Island at a depth of 1,500 kilometers.

Marine biologists have discovered a crustacean in the South Pacific that resembles a lobster or crab covered in what looks like silky fur.
Kiwa hirsuta is so distinct from other species that scientists have created a new taxonomic family for it.
A US-led team found the animal last year in waters 2,300m (7,540ft) deep at a site 1,500km (900 miles) south of Easter Island, an expert has claimed.

Scientists have different theories about what the silky hair may be used for. The BBC said they did find filamentous bacteria growing in the hair which some of the scientists believe may help the lobster detoxify poisonous materials in the water. Other scientists believe the lobster eats the bacteria.

The lobster find was reported in the journal of Paris' National Museum of Natural History.

ANIMALS