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Why some species in the deep sea get bigger, while some species get smaller

By Regina G. Barber

Published August 10, 2025 at 8:41 AM EDT

Thousands of meters below the ocean's surface lurk some gigantic creatures, much larger than their shallow-water brethren. Scientists have a few hunches for why this happens, but the debate continues.

Regina G. Barber

Regina G. Barber is Short Wave's Scientist in Residence. She contributes original reporting on STEM and guest hosts the show.

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