A new species of ghost shark, known as the Australasian narrow-nosed spookfish (Harriotta avia), has been discovered in the deep waters off the coast of New Zealand. This unique creature is exclusive to the waters of New Zealand and Australia and belongs to a group of cartilaginous fish called chimaeras, which are closely related to rays and sharks.
The Harriotta avia is characterized by its elongated, narrow, and depressed snout, long slender trunk, large eyes, and very long broad pectoral fins. It has smooth skin without scales and feeds on crustaceans such as shrimp and mollusks with its distinctive beak-like teeth. The fish was discovered by NIWA Fisheries Scientist Brit Finucci during a research survey for Fisheries New Zealand in the Chatham Rise near the South Island of New Zealand.
Ghost sharks like the Harriotta avia are typically found on the ocean floor at depths of up to 2,600 meters (8,530 feet), making them challenging to study and monitor. This habitat also contributes to the mystery surrounding their biology and threat status. Despite the lack of information, discoveries like this new species are incredibly exciting for scientists.
Previously, scientists believed that this new species was part of a globally distributed species, but recent research has revealed that it is genetically and morphologically distinct from its relatives. In honor of her grandmother and the fish’s place in the shark family tree, Finucci named the species Harriotta avia.
According to the IUCN, no species of chimaera are currently listed as endangered. However, overfishing poses a significant threat to more than one-third of all sharks, rays, and chimaeras, putting them at risk of extinction. Conservation efforts are crucial to protecting these unique and ancient creatures.
In addition to the discovery of the Harriotta avia, a team in the Philippines recently found a large new species of fanged frog called Limnonectes cassiopeia. These amphibians can grow as big as chickens and are known for their fangs, which are believed to be used in male-on-male combat.
The underwater world continues to surprise us with new and fascinating species, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect these unique and often mysterious creatures.
