Photo credit: National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research/Handout via AFP
Scientists in New Zealand have identified a new species of “ghost shark,” also known as chimaeras, in the deep waters surrounding Australia and New Zealand. The newly discovered species, Harriotta avia, was announced by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) on Tuesday. This mysterious fish prowls the ocean floor at depths exceeding 2.6 kilometers (1.6 miles), where it feeds on crustaceans.
The Australasian Narrow-nosed spookfish, as it is commonly called, has haunting black eyes and smooth, scale-free light brown skin. Its unique beak-like mouth helps it hunt for prey in the deep ocean, while its elongated snout, large eyes, and broad pectoral fins distinguish it from related species. Research scientist Brit Finucci, who led the study, named the species in honor of her grandmother, noting the Latin word “avia” means grandmother.
The specimens were discovered during a research expedition to the Chatham Rise, a vast underwater area located about 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) east of New Zealand’s South Island. Previously, this spookfish was believed to be part of a globally distributed species until scientists determined it was genetically distinct.
“These ghost sharks are hard to study due to their deep-sea habitat,” Finucci said. “Discoveries like this offer valuable insights into their biology, and it’s exciting to name a species that means something personal.”
Ghost sharks, closely related to sharks and rays, are part of a unique group of fish whose skeletons are composed entirely of cartilage. Despite being challenging to monitor, such discoveries contribute significantly to understanding their ecosystems and potential conservation needs.
SOURCE: ALJAZEERA