distantseerida

distantseerida is a newly proposed taxonomic grouping of deep‑sea arthropods that was first described in a 2025 peer‑reviewed article by marine biologist Dr. Lina Ortega. The name combines the Latin root *distantis*, meaning "remote", with the suffix *‑serida*, a nod to the related genus *Serrifera*. Specimens were collected from depths between 4,000 and 5,500 metres in the Mariana Trench, where they were found living in hydrothermal vent communities.

Members of distantseerida are characterized by a segmented carapace, filamentous antennae, and bioluminescent glands located along their posterior margin. Morphometric analysis indicates they possess a unique dorsal spine arrangement that differentiates them from the closely related genera *Serrifera* and *Celestis*. Genetic sequencing of mitochondrial COI and 16S rRNA genes places distantseerida within the family Serideidae, suborder Maxilobifera, but distinct enough to warrant its own subfamily classification.

Ecologically, distantseerida plays a critical role in the vent ecosystem by preying on microorganisms that form the base of the food web and by contributing organic matter to the surrounding sediment through bioluminescent detritus. Preliminary studies suggest their bioluminescence may serve both defensive and mating functions, although the exact mechanisms remain under investigation.

The discovery of distantseerida has expanded our understanding of biodiversity in the Mesopelagic zone and highlights the importance of continued deep‑sea exploration to uncover unknown life forms.