The giant deep-sea isopod, Bathynomus giganteus, is a charismatic, iconic deep-sea species found in the deep waters of the United States, particularly the Gulf of Mexico and Southern Atlantic. This large, recognizable animal, similar to a pill bug or roly poly, can reach almost 2 feet in length. Since their discovery in the late 19th century, giant isopods have captured the public’s imagination, acting as an Ambassador Species for deep-sea ecosystems. Ambassador Species are important for education, exploration, and conservation as they provide a charismatic symbol to help introduce people to new and unfamiliar creatures and places.
We call upon the Congress of the United States of America to establish the giant deep-sea isopod, Bathynomus giganteus, as our National Deep-sea Animal.