A new underwater species resembling a 'skeleton panda' discovered in Japan – here's what it is

Clavelina ossipandae (Image: Naohiro Hasegawa and Hiroshi Kajihara)

It began with a diver’s surprise near Kumejima Island. What looked like a tiny panda underwater turned out to be something new. The unusual creature, spotted among coral reefs, has now been named Clavelina ossipandae.

Its striking black-and-white appearance quickly caught attention online. But this wasn’t an aquarium trick—it was a real animal, newly identified and scientifically confirmed. Marine researchers and curious citizens helped bring this hidden sea life into the spotlight.

Panda-Like Sea Creature Captivates Scientists
The new species belongs to the Clavelina genus of sea squirts. Tiny and strange, the animal measures just 20 millimetres long. White bands stretch across its body, like bones, with dark patches beside them.

Marine biologist Naohiro Hasegawa explained the illusion. The “bones” are actually blood vessels in its gills. This trick of biology gives the creature a panda-like look.

Divers first spotted it in 2022, between 16 and 66 feet deep. They shared photos online, sparking interest in science forums. Researchers then confirmed it was not like others seen before. Careful specimen studies and genetic tests followed.

Key Role in Reef Health
Clavelina ossipandae might look cute, but it works hard. It is a filter feeder, pulling in seawater and cleaning it. That makes it important for coral reef life. It helps remove bacteria and microalgae from the water.

The species is a distant cousin of humans, being part of the Chordata group. But unlike us, it stays stuck to one spot after growing up. Still, it helps the entire reef by keeping sunlight flowing below the surface.

Clear water helps coral grow and fish thrive. Though often unnoticed, animals like Clavelina ossipandae keep marine ecosystems alive.

Mystery and Modern Discovery
Why it resembles a panda remains to be seen. Scientists speculate whether the colouring allows it to conceal itself, deter predators or shield itself against the sun. Or maybe, it simply occurred by coincidence, with no specific reason.

The find highlights the role of amateur divers in making science. Their internet blogs assisted scientists in discovering and observing the new creature. Citizen science, where amateur scientists assist in research without prior education, was an important factor here.

Genetic testing established it as a new species. Researchers discovered a slight but definite DNA difference from close species. The findings were released in the journal Species Diversity.

This small panda of the sea is tiny, but the story it tells about evolution, ecology, and human inquiry is big.