Scientists Discover ‘Death Traps’ in the Red Sea’s Depths That Could Be Lethal for Life
Cairo: Scientists have discovered natural “death traps” in the depths of the Red Sea, which could prove deadly for any form of life. These lethal pools were found at a depth of nearly 4,000 feet in the Gulf of Aqaba. The pools have saltwater concentrations ten times higher than regular seawater and are devoid of oxygen. As a result, any living creature that enters these pools faces almost no chance of survival.
According to *Daily Star*, the team of experts has named these pools “Neom Brine Pools” and believes this discovery not only extends the geographical boundaries of the Red Sea’s saline pools but also provides a unique environmental setting for preserving climate and terrestrial changes.
The Gulf of Aqaba has long been a mystery due to its unique geological features. Its depth averages 900 meters and can extend up to 1,850 meters. Volcanic activity and unusual fluctuations in temperature have also been observed in the area. This stretch of sea separates Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula from Saudi Arabia. Some experts even believe that this might be the location where Prophet Moses, peace be upon him, parted the Red Sea to save the Israelites from Pharaoh’s tyranny.
While most of these hyper-salty pools offer little to no chance for life to thrive, scientists have discovered microorganisms that can survive under such extreme conditions. These microorganisms are referred to as “extremophile prokaryotes,” capable of living in environments with extreme temperatures, pressure, salinity, acidity, or radiation.
Experts suggest that these “death traps” may serve as one of the best examples of early life on Earth. Studying them could provide valuable insights into the origins of life on our planet and also assist in the search for water and life possibilities on other planets.
