Giant Isopod (Bathynomus Giganteus)
Ocean Explorer is a fantastic web site, documenting the Natinol Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations explorations into the deep! During August – September, scientists retuned to explore the benthic creatures of the Northern Gulf of Mexico, hoping to continue their astonishing array of discoveries, including a fluorescent shark, fluorescent methane hydrates, and a new species of large deep-sea squid.
The site is fascinating and worthy of a visit. The giant isopod, Bathynomus giganteus, (see image) is a close relative of the pill bugs, rolly pollies and sowbugs found in houses and gardens. Image finding one of these under your kitchen sink!!!
