Scientists Count Over 2 Million Basketwork Eels on Patience Seamount in Australia's Huon Marine Park

Researchers have for the first time quantified the massive annual gathering of basketwork eels (Diastobranchus capensis) on Patience Seamount, an underwater mountain in Australia's Huon Marine Park off Tasmania. Using advanced sonar and camera surveys, they counted more than 2 million eels, making it one of the largest known aggregations of deep-sea fish. The eels are believed to gather for spawning, though the exact reason remains unknown. This discovery highlights the ecological importance of seamounts as biodiversity hotspots and supports the protection of marine parks. The findings could inform conservation efforts and deepen understanding of deep-sea life cycles.