Research Below the Thermocline
Sublevel 7 is the world's deepest permanent research station, embedded in the Kermadec Trench at a depth of 7,600 metres. Designed for extended habitation and specimen collection under extreme pressure conditions.
Recent specimens collected by the remotely-operated vehicle Bathys during dive operations beyond the station perimeter.
Large, bell-shaped medusa with delicate radial canals. Observed drifting at the edge of the hydrothermal vent field. Bioluminescent response triggered by ROV proximity.
Female specimen, approximately 18cm. Eska (lure) intact and actively bioluminescent. Captured in the benthic boundary layer. Notable for pronounced sexual dimorphism.
Juvenile specimen, total length 2.4m. Captured on camera array B-7 during nocturnal feeding ascent. Mantle robust, fins large relative to body size. Tentacle suckers arranged in alternating rows.