New Zealand scientists have discovered a tiny snowflake-like crustacean in the silty depths off the southern east coast. The marine isopod, roughly 1.5mm in size, plays a crucial role in decomposing organic material that sinks to the seabed. To generate interest in local marine life, the scientists decided to name the crustacean Pentaceration forkandbrewer after the Wellington brewery, Fork and Brewer.
The unique name was awarded to the brewery as a prize for winning the best beer competition at the 10th International Crustacean Congress in 2024. This event was co-chaired by marine biologists Rachael Peart and Kareen Schnabel from the National Institute of Water and Atmospherics (Niwa). The congress aimed to showcase the marine world and promote Wellington’s locally made beer industry.
Head brewer Brayden Rawlinson crafted the winning beer, which was inspired by a southern US low country boil-up. The beer featured potatoes, flaked corn, creole seasoning, and crustaceans, with a subtle briny flavor infused by adding prawns at the end of the boil. The competition involved seven local breweries, each vying to create the most unique and “crusty” beer.
According to Peart, the goal of the competition was to raise awareness about the diverse range of crustaceans in New Zealand waters. With the looming threats of climate change and human activity, documenting and understanding these species before they disappear is crucial. The hope is that by connecting the public with these extraordinary creatures, there will be more interest and support for their conservation.
Peart emphasized the importance of preserving marine life and ecosystems, stating that every bit of awareness helps in protecting these species from extinction. By incorporating a local brewery into scientific literature through the naming of the crustacean, the scientists aimed to engage the community in appreciating and safeguarding the marine environment.
Overall, the naming of Pentaceration forkandbrewer serves as a reminder of the intricate connections between different aspects of our world. It highlights the significance of marine life and the efforts being made to ensure its survival for future generations to enjoy and study. By combining science, beer, and creativity, the scientists have successfully captured the public’s attention and sparked curiosity about the wonders of the underwater world.
