Sea spiders, with their distinctive appearance, have long puzzled scientists. Recent research sheds light on their unique anatomy, specifically the absence of an abdomen.
A study published in 2025 sequenced the genome of *Pycnogonum litorale*, revealing a key finding. The research showed the absence of a Hox gene responsible for abdomen development in these creatures.
This discovery, led by Dr. Prashant Sharma, indicates a significant evolutionary adaptation. The loss of this Hox gene is linked to the absence of the abdomen, offering insights into arthropod development.