For the first time, researchers have laid eyes upon a newly discovered species of “gelatinous predator” spotted in the light-deprived depths of the Pacific Ocean. Experts now believe this yet-to-be-described species of jellyfish may illuminate a deeper understanding of the enigmatic aquatic world from which it emerged.

The creatures include cactus urchins — of which there is currently only one known species — squat lobsters with spiky shells and beady eyes, ancient corals likely dating back thousands of years, translucent “glass” squids and potentially 30 new species of sea sponges, including some unusually colorful ones.

From coral bleaching to sea level rise, entire marine ecosystems are rapidly changing. Global warming is causing alterations in ocean chemistry and many oceanic processes, and it is threatening many species of marine animals that cannot cope with higher temperatures.