SpongeBob SquarePants

Ocean researchers have photographed a fat, bright-pink starfish being likened to Patrick from Spongebob Squarepants, captured during deep-sea work that also documented dozens of previously unknown marine animals. Reports say around 57 entirely new species were found alongside the famous-looking starfish, and the resemblance to the cartoon character is driving widespread amusement online.

Deep-sea scientists have photographed a creature strikingly similar to Patrick Star from SpongeBob SquarePants during a survey that also documented dozens of species previously unknown to science. The discovery is drawing attention for its pop-culture resemblance as much as its scientific value, with the images offering a rare glimpse of life in some of the ocean's least explored depths.

Researchers have announced the discovery of 57 previously unknown deep-sea species, with observations drawing comparisons to Patrick Star, the pink starfish character from SpongeBob SquarePants, after one of the finds reportedly resembled the cartoon character. The discoveries highlight how little is still known about life in the ocean's deepest environments, and the finds are drawing widespread public attention alongside scientific interest.

A stage production themed on SpongeBob SquarePants is being staged, according to local broadcaster WSBT, which announced that the beloved Nickelodeon character is now appearing in live theatre. The item offers no further details on the venue, cast or dates, but the character's transition from screen to stage is drawing attention among fans and theatre audiences.