# Viral biodiversity study in Clarion-Clipperton Zone > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/viral-biodiversity-study-in-clarion-clipperton-zone > Updated: 2026-10-14T09:03:37.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Researchers from Chongqing University and China’s Second Institute of Oceanography have identified a vast number of previously unknown viruses in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone of the Pacific Ocean. Initial reports indicated the discovery of over 11,000 viruses, with approximately 99 percent being unknown to science. Subsequent details clarified the discovery to include more than 11,700 virus types, of which approximately 11,662 had never been recorded. The study, published in Nature Communications, utilized sediment samples collected from depths of up to 6,000 meters. The research aims to establish a microbial ecosystem baseline in a region containing massive reserves of polymetallic nodules rich in metals like cobalt, nickel, and manganese. Scientists noted that these findings provide essential data on the ecological role of viruses in mineral-rich areas before deep-sea mining activities, for which the International Seabed Authority has already issued several exploration contracts, potentially alter the ecosystem. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-14: Clarion-Clipperton Zone discovery reveals 11,700 virus types Scientists discovered over 11,700 virus types in the Pacific's Clarion-Clipperton Zone, with 99% being new to science, highlighting the complex ecosystem near massive deep-sea mineral reserves. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/clarion-clipperton-zone-discovery-reveals-11700-virus-types ### 2026-10-02: Clarion-Clipperton Zone study reveals 11,000 viruses, mostly unknown to science Researchers discovered over 11,000 viruses in the Pacific's Clarion-Clipperton Zone, with 99% being new to science, providing a vital microbial baseline ahead of potential deep-sea mining. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/clarion-clipperton-zone-study-reveals-11000-viruses-mostly-unknown-to-science --- Cite as: Viral biodiversity study in Clarion-Clipperton Zone. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/viral-biodiversity-study-in-clarion-clipperton-zone