In a groundbreaking marine discovery, UK scientists have unveiled a new species of sea slug, now officially named Pleurobranchaea Britannica. This remarkable find, confirmed by the Centre for Environmental Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, adds a new member to the pleurobranchid genus family, previously thought to include only two species, none of which were known to inhabit UK waters.
The discovery occurred in the western Channel and Celtic Sea during 2018 and 2019, challenging previous understandings of the marine biodiversity in the region. The Pleurobranchaea Britannica, measuring between 2cm and 5cm, is a side-gilled sea slug, a type usually associated with warmer waters, making its presence in UK seas even more extraordinary.
Marine ecologist Ross Bullimore, who played a pivotal role in the discovery, shared his excitement, noting that the identification of a Pleurobranchaea species in the UK waters was an unexpected and thrilling development. Initially believed to be an already-known species, the sea slug was confirmed as a new, unique type following a detailed analysis in collaboration with the University of Cadiz.
This discovery not only enriches the marine biodiversity catalog of the UK but also underscores the surprises our oceans hold, reminding us of the vast unexplored frontiers right on our doorstep.
