In a thrilling expedition off the coast of Costa Rica, scientists from the Schmidt Ocean Institute made a remarkable discovery. While exploring octopuses near the Dorado Outcrop, their remotely operated vehicle encountered an extraordinary deep-sea creature. The news of this encounter has captivated the scientific community and ocean enthusiasts alike.

The creature in question is none other than a gulper eel, also known as a pelican eel. Known for its distinctive appearance and unique feeding mechanism, this particular gulper eel displayed an astonishing sight. Its belly was visibly engorged, presenting a rare glimpse of its recent feast.

According to the institute, the gulper eel’s stomach was still inflated, suggesting that it had devoured an undigested meal, possibly a squid or a swarm of shrimp. The scientists, gathered around the monitor in awe, witnessed the magnificent spectacle of this deep-sea predator with its “balloon-like” stomach.

Beth Orcutt, the vice president of research at the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, expressed her excitement, describing it as one of the most remarkable events in her career. Dr. Diva Amon, the first scientist to identify the animal, shared her amazement, highlighting the significance of this encounter after years of exploring the deep ocean.

This extraordinary observation sheds light on the fascinating behavior of gulper eels, particularly their ability to expand their mouths in an astonishing manner. It is a first-of-its-kind encounter, showcasing the eel’s full tummy, making it all the more exceptional.

For the scientists involved in this expedition, this rare event serves as a testament to the incredible biodiversity thriving in Costa Rica’s waters. The discovery reinforces the importance of deep-sea exploration and highlights the wonders that lie beneath the ocean’s depths.