I don't know how long M has been around, however I do believe it is a result of the combination of the GM things going on...
but there is quite a lot of info on strongylus monospinigerum on this site (not to mention other biology and science sites). Here is one thread but there are many others you can check:
Seasprites great find
If the researchers do not know about this then it is even more frustratingly sad. The info is readily available and they have not even remotely done due diligence if they are unaware of it.