New supergiant sea bug discovered in the South China Sea. Visually, he is very similar to Darth Vader - the central character of the film epic "

Scientists named it Vaderi, precisely because of its resemblance to the iconic helmet from the popular film. Live Science writes that the newly discovered bug belongs to the genus Bathynomus - giant isopods that are abundant in cold, deep waters.

It turned out to be one of the largest among the known isopods - its weight is more than 1 kilogram, and it can be up to 32.5 centimeters in length.

To investigate the clam species found, the team studied specimens caught by local fishermen and found that they had distinct physical features.. Scientists describe a pronounced depression in the femur B. vaderi and a unique bony crest protruding from the corcoid bone, distinguishing it from other supergiant isopods.

The researchers noted that Bathynomus species have recently become a delicacy in Vietnam and are often compared to lobsters.. Local demand has turned these sea beetles into an expensive commodity in the live seafood market, leading to increased pressure on fishing in the region. This commercial enthusiasm creates both opportunities and challenges, researchers say. A rapidly growing market could threaten giant isopods, but it could also pave the way for stricter regulations and environmental practices in deep-sea fisheries.