‘Hoof prints’ reveal their origins a decade later

The depths of the vast ocean, It covers more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, containing secrets and mysteries that still arouse the curiosity of humanity. For a decade, the mystery that had baffled scientists was finally found Your response in New Zealand watersWhich opens the door to a series of questions about what still awaits him in the depths of the ocean.

In 2013, WNew Zealand National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) He made a remarkable discovery in the depths of the sea: strange marks that, to the naked eye, resemble hoof prints on the ocean floor. The scientific community was puzzled, speculating whether it was a sign of a species of fish unknown to science. However, at that moment, the unknown trumped the answers.

A decade later, technology has shed light on this mystery. A team of researchers, equipped with the Deep Cloud Imaging System (DTIS), has carefully explored these matters Mysterious signs at a depth of 450 meters. The answers to questions that have baffled scientists and ocean enthusiasts alike have finally been revealed.

The mysterious It has been revealed that “hoofprints” are a phenomenon caused by a species of fish known as Grenadier or Rattail. These fish, which venture into the depths of the ocean, use their mouths to gnaw at the sea floor in search of sustenance.

Marine biologist Sadie Mills, who was actively involved in this research, shared his enthusiasm for unraveling this enduring mystery. These bite marks provide invaluable insight into the feeding habits of Rattails, which have not previously been well documented in their natural habitat.