Turkish scientists discover new species in Antarctica

A new species was discovered during the 6th Turkish Antarctic Expedition, organized under the auspices of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye and coordinated by the TÜBİTAK MAM Polar Research Institute (KARE).

Having made significant investments in polar research in recent years, Türkiye is playing an active role in scientific discoveries in Antarctica. Turkish academics, including Prof. Dr. Serdar Sak from the Department of Biology, Zoology Division at Balıkesir University's Faculty of Arts and Sciences, discovered a new species of Copepod in the benthic habitat of West Antarctica.

The species, discovered by Prof. Dr. Serdar Sak of Balıkesir University, along with Prof. Dr. Süphan Karaytuğ of Mersin University, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Serdar Sönmez of Adıyaman University, and Prof. Dr. Okan Külköylüoğlu of Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University, was named "Harpacticus tae," referencing the "Turkish Antarctic Expedition" (TAE) to highlight Türkiye's scientific activities in Antarctica.

WHAT IS HARPACTICUS TAE

The Harpacticus tae species is a type of arthropod known as a copepod. Dating back to ancient times, copepods are microscopic invertebrate organisms that play an important role in aquatic ecosystems. The Harpacticus tae species, found off the coast of Nansen Island in Antarctica, is believed to play a significant ecological role as a primary consumer.

News Source: 12punto