AssetID: 55730283
Headline: Tiny blue octopus discovered in the Galapagos Islands
Caption: Tiny blue octopus discovered in the Galapagos Islands. Scientists in the Galápagos Islands have discovered a tiny blue octopus so adorable it has been compared to a plush toy. The new species, named Microeledone galapagensis, was first spotted during a deep-sea expedition near Darwin Island in 2015 but it's only just now been given an official name. Researchers found the octopus nearly 5,800 feet below the ocean surface using a remotely operated underwater vehicle. About the size of a golf ball, the tiny octopus immediately stood out because of its bright blue colour and unusual appearance. Scientists used advanced CT scanning technology to study the rare specimen without cutting it open or damaging it. Researchers say the discovery highlights how much of the deep ocean around the Galápagos still remains unexplored and why protecting it matters.
Keywords: Natural World,tiny,blue,octopus,discovered,Galapagos Islands,scientists,species,Microeledone galapagensis,ocean,deep-sea,expedition,Darwin Island,researchers,underwater,CT scanning,rare specimen,habitat
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