Scientists identify golden orb found off Alaska as giant sea anemone Relicanthus daphneae, ending years of speculation about its nature.

Scientists have concluded that the "golden orb" found off Alaska is indeed a giant sea anemone, Relicanthus daphneae. This discovery, made by NOAA researchers in August 2023, is a culmination of years of speculation about the orb's nature.
Initially thought to be an egg casing or sponge, the orb was discovered two miles deep during an expedition focused on ocean floor mapping. Analysis of its DNA revealed substantial genetic material from R. daphneae, confirming its identity. Research suggests this species has been spotted in diverse deep-sea locations globally, including the Antarctic Ocean and Central Pacific.
“It's great to have an answer to what the golden orb is, and as is often the case in the deep sea, it’s a surprise,” says a marine ecologist from the University of Southampton, highlighting the novelty of the findings. The analysis performed also suggests that despite initial assumptions based on anatomy, R. daphneae might belong to a new order of animals altogether. The researchers have submitted their findings for review.
This remarkable specimen not only clarifies the identity of the golden orb but also opens up avenues for further exploration and understanding of deep-sea species.

Scientists have identified the mysterious "golden orb" discovered two miles deep off Alaska as the giant sea anemone Relicanthus daphneae, putting an end to years of speculation. The specimen offers insights into an anemone species documented in various deep-sea locations worldwide.