Three years ago, during an expedition at the bottom of the Gulf of Alaska, a submarine detected a golden orb that contrasted with surrounding rocks. Its smooth, organic surface did not resemble that of any known animal; the team immediately retrieved it for study. Now, at last, we know what it was.
A recent study, which is still awaiting peer review, rules out the extraterrestrial origin social media users suggested at the time. The researchers conclude that the mysterious orb is in fact the organic remains of Relicanthus daphneae, a giant and rare anemone that inhabits the deep sea.
S 001