Underwater Robot Captures Strange Deep-Sea Creature That Bewilders Scientists

Captured over 3,700 feet beneath the Indian Ocean, a deep-sea organism that looks like an extraterrestrial symbol has fascinated viewers worldwide. The video presents the creature shifting from a still, emblematic form into a glowing orb filled with bright bioluminescent colors.

Originally uploaded on YouTube in 2013 by user CaptainJRD, this astonishing footage has reemerged recently, reigniting curiosity due to its otherworldly visuals and the enigma of the creature’s true nature.

An Unexpected Transformation Surprises Viewers

About 40 seconds into the video, the creature undergoes a remarkable shift. It starts off motionless and almost geometrical, resembling more a symbol or logo than a living organism. Suddenly, it contracts into a compact, pulsating jellyfish-like form that glows with shimmering iridescent lights.

Add Cosmo Herald as a Preferred Source

Deep-sea jellyfish exhibiting a striking blood-red center. Credit: Monterey Bay Aquarium

Some observers likened the bioluminescent display to a “disco ball.” Viewer comments reveal a mix of amazement and skepticism, with one remarking, “If this isn’t one of the coolest things ever, I’m not sure what is.” So far, the video has amassed over 6.4 million views.

Identified as a Bloodbelly Comb Jelly

While many speculated the creature was an unknown species, numerous commenters eventually recognized it as a Bloodbelly Comb Jelly, scientifically named Lampocteis.

“For those wondering, this is a Bloodbelly Comb Jelly also called Lampocteis. Really beautiful creatures,” one wrote.

This species of deep-sea ctenophore is distinguished by its remarkable bioluminescent traits and rows of tiny comb-like cilia used for swimming, which diffract light to produce the shimmering, rainbow-like spectacle seen in the video.

Reports cited by indy100 indicate the stunning light display is authentic and hasn’t been digitally altered. The spectacular glow results naturally from the jelly’s structure and its swimming movements.

The Lampocteis is seldom witnessed in such detail, particularly during active periods, making this footage a rare glimpse into its natural behavior and physical characteristics.

Tragically Destroyed by ROV Propeller

Despite the incredible visuals, the clip concludes with a somber moment. As the jelly completes its radiant transformation, it is abruptly pulled into the output current of the ROV’s thruster, causing it to disintegrate rapidly.

The description supplied by CaptainJRD explains the creature was "caught up in the output from the ROV thrusters" just as the camera neared it. Numerous viewers expressed sadness witnessing the fragile organism being torn apart live.

Bloodbelly Comb Jelly. Credit: MBARI (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute)

The poignant conclusion resonated with many, symbolizing humanity’s delicate but often destructive relationship with nature. As one comment noted, “So very sad and also fitting for what we do to nature every second, everywhere on Earth.”