360 Deep Sea Skate Encounter at Endeavour Site

While exploring the Endeavour High Rise vent field near the NEPTUNE Observatory with Ocean Networks Canada, our Corps of Exploration were WOWed by this gorgeous deep sea skate (Bathyraja genus). Enjoy a stunning 360 view of this species in the family Arhynchobatidae, and share in the wonder of our control van as it swims alongside ROV Hercules. 

Skates are closely related to sharks and rays, and this isn’t the first time they’ve been spotted near hydrothermal vents. Some species have even been known to create nurseries of eggs on active volcanos. Scientists speculate that the heated water provides incubation for the eggs (also known as “mermaid purses.”) 

Learn more about the #ONCabyss NA161 expedition funded by Ocean Networks Canada.