A newly discovered deep-sea isopod has been making waves in the scientific community—and its eerie resemblance to Star Wars’ Darth Vader has earned it a fitting name.
Scientists in Southeast Asia have identified a colossal isopod species off the coast of Vietnam, officially naming it Bathynomus vaderi due to its armored head, which mirrors Darth Vader’s iconic helmet. The discovery, published in Zookeys, describes this deep-sea creature as so large and otherworldly that it almost appears AI-generated.
Measuring an impressive 12.8 inches in length and weighing 2.2 pounds—about the same as a guinea pig—this supergiant isopod dwarfs many of its crustacean relatives.
Surprisingly, the first known specimen of B. vaderi wasn’t found in the wild but at a seafood market in Quy Nhơn City, Vietnam. Researchers from Hanoi University purchased the unusual creature and collaborated with scientists in Singapore to classify it. Upon close examination, they confirmed that the isopod was a previously unidentified species.
So far, B. vaderi has only been found near the Spratly Islands, where it was caught by deep-sea anglers trawling for isopods. However, scientists believe it likely inhabits other regions of the South China Sea as well.
Like other giant isopods—of which there are about 20 species—B. vaderi is a carnivore, feasting on crustaceans, fish, squid, and even the remains of whales.
Ironically, while it lurks in the ocean depths as a fearsome scavenger, it also finds itself on dinner plates. In Vietnam and other parts of Asia, giant isopods are considered a delicacy, often compared to lobster. Once regarded as cheap bycatch, they now command high prices at seafood markets. A restaurant in Taipei famously served a 14-legged isopod with ramen for $65.
The rising demand for these deep-sea creatures has raised concerns among researchers. While the species' growing commercial value could pose a threat to its survival, it might also encourage more sustainable harvesting practices.
Despite its impressive size, B. vaderi isn’t the largest known isopod. That title belongs to Bathynomus jamesi, which can grow up to 20 inches long and weigh a hefty 5.7 pounds.
With continued research, scientists hope to uncover more about B. vaderi’s habitat and behavior—ensuring that this real-life “Darth Vader” of the deep doesn’t vanish before we fully understand it.
Source: New York Post