In August 2023, a team from NOAA Ocean Exploration discovered a mysterious golden orb on the ocean floor off the coast of Alaska, at a depth of about 3,300 meters (10,800 feet). The object, which was about 10 centimeters (4 inches) in diameter, had a hole in it, and was initially described as a 'golden orb' or 'golden egg.'
After over two years of analysis, scientists have identified the object as an egg case, likely from a skate (a type of ray) or a snailfish. The hole in the orb is believed to be where a juvenile animal emerged. The discovery was made during the Seascape Alaska expedition, which explored deep-sea habitats.
The identification was confirmed through genetic analysis and comparison with known egg cases. The find highlights the importance of deep-sea exploration and the many mysteries that remain in the ocean's depths.
