Scientists have identified a mysterious golden object discovered in the deep waters off Alaska in 2023 as part of a rare giant deep-sea anemone, concluding a two-year investigation into the unusual specimen.

The object was found approximately 2 miles beneath the surface in the Gulf of Alaska during a deep-sea exploration mission. NOAA and Smithsonian scientists worked together to analyze the specimen and determine its biological classification.

The identification process took over two years as researchers conducted detailed examinations of the object's structure and composition. Deep-sea anemones of this type are considered rare discoveries, particularly at such depths in Alaskan waters.

The discovery adds to scientific understanding of deep-sea ecosystems in the Gulf of Alaska region. Such findings help researchers better comprehend the biodiversity that exists in extreme deep-ocean environments.

The specimen's golden appearance initially made classification challenging, as many deep-sea organisms have adapted unique colorations and forms to survive in the high-pressure, low-light conditions of the ocean floor.