Scientists have long studied organisms that thrive around hydrothermal vents. But those native to areas known as cold seeps — where gases like methane and hydrogen sulfite leach from the seafloor at near-freezing temperatures — have been little studied.

"There's often an edge to the human eye on the seafloor." Scientists shocked as deep-sea expedition captures 'enigmatic' discovery at bottom of Pacific Ocean: 'Might otherwise be missed entirely' first appeared on The Cool Down.

A research team led by scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences has discovered extraordinary deep-sea life in one of the most extreme environments on Earth. Using a manned submersible, the team explored ocean trenches in the northwest Pacific, reaching depths of over 31,000 feet.