The Nippon Foundation has discovered dozens of never-before-seen species, including the “Death Ball” Sponge. The “Death Ball” Sponge was discovered near Montsgu Island in late October, 2025. The “Death Ball” Sponge was deep in the Southern Ocean, at depths of more than 3,600 meters (nearly 12,000 feet) below the surface. Scientists believe it belongs to the genus Chondrocladia, a group known for its carnivorous feeding habits, though its exact species name is still being studied. This unusual sponge doesn’t filter food from the water like most sponges do. Instead, it’s a hunter; the carnivorous species gets its name, the “Death Ball” Sponge, from its unique arms tipped with spherical orbs covered in tiny hooks that trap unaware prey.

The discovery reveals that Earth’s deepest oceans are full of mysterious creatures, with endless species still waiting to be uncovered. The death ball sponge was a mythial find as The Nippon Foundation were on a mission to find unknown species. However, the “death-ball” sponge found in the deep ocean is not dangerous to humans because it lives in water depth where human contact is virtually impossible. However, some shallow-water sponges, like the toxic finger sponge, can be dangerous if touched, as they release toxins that can cause skin irritation and other reactions.