New York, February 5: Marine scientists have captured rare, high-definition footage of a "Giant Phantom Jellyfish" (Stygiomedusa gigantea) in the deep waters off the coast of Argentina. The massive creature, which researchers estimate to be the size of a school bus, was spotted by a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) at a depth of several thousand feet. This sighting is considered highly significant, as the species has been recorded fewer than 150 times since its discovery in 1899.

The video shows the jellyfish drifting through the "midnight zone," a region of the ocean where sunlight cannot reach. The creature is distinguished by its deep reddish-purple bell, which can reach over three feet in width, and its four ribbon-like oral arms that extend up to 33 feet in length. Unlike typical jellyfish, this species lacks stinging tentacles, using its massive, scarf-like arms to trap and engulf prey instead. Himalayan Red Fox Spotted in Zojila Pass: Rare Animal Sighted in Jammu Kashmir, Video Goes Viral.

Giant Phantom Jellyfish Spotted, Video Surfaces

The 'Phantom' of the Deep Sea

The Stygiomedusa gigantea is one of the largest invertebrate predators in the deep-sea ecosystem. Its nickname, the "Phantom Jellyfish," stems from its elusive nature and the way its translucent, velvety arms billow in the current. Because it inhabits extreme depths, often between 3,000 and 20,000 feet, studying its behavior in its natural habitat is exceptionally difficult for biologists.

Researchers involved in the expedition noted that the jellyfish appeared to be moving with a slow, pulsing motion. Observations suggests the creature uses its massive surface area to navigate the high-pressure environment of the South Atlantic. Pink Dolphins Spotted at Mumbai’s Marine Drive? Fact Check Reveals AI-Generated Clip Going Viral With Netizens Believing It To Be True.

Technological Breakthroughs in Marine Research

This discovery was made possible through advanced underwater robotics capable of withstandng the crushing pressure of the deep ocean. The ROV utilized 4K cameras and specialized lighting to document the jellyfish without disturbing its environment.

"Every sighting of a Phantom Jellyfish provides critical data on the biodiversity of our oceans," said one of the lead researchers. "Seeing a specimen of this size and in such pristine condition helps us understand how these apex gelatinous predators survive in the resource-scarce deep sea."

While little is known about the lifespan or reproductive habits of the Giant Phantom Jellyfish, scientists believe they play a vital role in the deep-sea food web. In previous sightings, small fish have been observed seeking shelter within the jellyfish's bell, suggesting a symbiotic relationship where the jellyfish provides protection in exchange for scraps of food or cleaning services.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 05, 2026 11:48 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).