As a science student whose interest lies in biology, I couldn't help but to be fascinated by the bizarre creatures previously unknown to the world. Here are some examples that can keep you in awe:
1. Ghost slug
Or, taxonomically known as Selenochlamys ysbryda, the ghost slug - so called due to its glowing white colour - doesn't haunt any thing but snacks on earthworm. "Ysbryda" originates from ysbryd which means "ghost" in Welsh.
Having the scientific name of Barbourula kalimantanensis, from the species epithet "kalimantanensis", we know that this fella inhabits the pristine forest of the Borneo island. Unlike its cousins, this guy only breathes using solely its damp skin. No kidding. No lungs at all.3. Photosynthetic slug
So you say animals cannot make their own food, huh? Guess what, this sluggish example will beat the slug out of you. How it gets the chloroplast you asked? This little fella takes up chloroplasts from the algae it consumes. It doesn't stop there. Part of the genome of the algae is being incorporated into the DNA of this green Elysia chlorotica as well. Geez, when this guy steals, it strips you naked down to the genes.4. Unusually twisted snail
Snails usually have their, well, normal way of twisting their carapace in no more than 3 axes. Sounds like I am speaking German to you? Never mind. This particular snail, called Opisthostoma vermiculum, is only found in a particular, confined karst region (I am not speaking Indian, revise your geography about limestone caves) in Gunung Rapat, Perak. Its shell twists in 4 axes. Very unusual.5. Palm that flowers to death
What do you think of this: When you are at the peak of your life and right after that you are gone (touch wood)? This huge palm tree will flower heavily right before the end of its life. The flowers of this Tahina spectabilis are the upper part of the palm as shown in the picture.
Think archaea that live in hotsprings and hydrothermal vents are extreme? What about these fellas that live in the unthinkable environment of a hairspray? The next time you use the spray, think of Microbacterium hatanonis.
Macropinna microstoma has a transparent head that is filled with fluid Its bright green eyes often stare upwards unless a prey has been detected. This guy is about 15 cm in length.
Images and description retrieved from http://www.newscientist.com/gallery/new-species/1
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