Researchers discovered what they believe is a new species in the first high-tech exploration of Argentina's Mar del Plata Canyon.

The Argentinian-led expedition, which was broadcast online, found more than 40 suspected new kinds of sea anemones, cucumbers, urchins, snails, corals, and crinoids.

Among the discoveries was a spiny pink starfish with a large 'buttocks' that resembled the SpongeBob character Patrick Star.

Scientists on Schmidt Ocean Institute's R/V Falkor (too) deployed the remotely operated vehicle SuBastian on a trek of the 3,500-metre (11,483 feet) underwater canyon.

Wendy Schmidt, co-founder and president of Schmidt Ocean Institute, said in a statement: 'The deep sea and its awe-inspiring life – from bright corals to mesmerising octopuses – has captivated an entire nation, thanks to a team of passionate scientists and the millions of people watching their work, via livestream.

'Argentina is showing the world the power of deep-sea exploration to not only spark wonder, but to remind us how much of our planet remains to be discovered and protected.'

The expedition marks the first time scientists have observed the canyon directly. Previous research relied on net and trawl samples collected in 2012 and 2013.

Chief Scientist Dr. Daniel Lauretta of CONICET said: 'This expedition has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me, and I'm honored to share it with colleagues I've worked with for a decade.'

The 21-day expedition was carried out in the Mar del Plata Canyon, one of Argentina's largest underwater canyons, located 300 kilometres (186 miles) off the coast of Mar del Plata. The canyon stretches to more than 3,500 metres at its deepest point, which is nearly twice the depth of the Grand Canyon.

Schmidt Ocean Institute's Executive Director, Dr Jyotika Virmani, said: 'This cruise underscores the power of ocean exploration and science in igniting the imagination.

'It was inspiring for us to see Argentinians fall in love with their own deep sea, and we are grateful to the science team, who balanced the demands of seagoing science with their passion to share their research with millions.'