Scientists have discovered a never-before-seen giant sea bug after studying samples purchased from fishers in Vietnam.
Bathynomus vaderi belongs to the genus Bathynomus — giant isopods that are abundant in cold, deep waters. It is a “supergiant,” weighing over 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram) and growing up to 12.8 inches (32.5 centimeters) long, making it one of the largest known isopods.
The species is named “vaderi” because its head resembles Darth Vader’s iconic helmet from “Star Wars.”
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The researchers noted that Bathynomus species have recently become a delicacy in Vietnam, often compared to lobster. The local demand has turned these sea bugs into an expensive staple of the live-seafood market, leading to increased fishing pressures in the region.
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The first point makes me genuinely sad, how are you gonna be mad about an animal outside in its own habitat? 😭 Besides, most multi-legged horrors are adorable.