New Species of Ghost Shark Discovered in Deep Waters

Scientists in New Zealand have made an exciting discovery—a new species of “ghost shark,” also known as the Australasian Narrow-nosed spookfish. This unique species, found in the deep waters around Australia and New Zealand, resides more than 2.6 kilometers (1.6 miles) beneath the ocean surface. The discovery was made by researchers from the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) in Wellington during an expedition in the Chatham Rise, a region extending about 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) east of New Zealand’s South Island.

Ghost sharks, or chimaeras, are distant relatives of sharks and rays, sharing similar cartilaginous skeletons. These mysterious creatures are also known by other names, such as ratfish, rabbitfish, and elephant fish. They have a distinctive appearance, characterized by their smooth, brown skin, haunting black eyes, and beak-like mouths. This species uses its unique mouth to feed on crustaceans along the ocean floor, where it primarily lives.

The newly discovered ghost shark has been given the scientific name Harriotta avia by research scientist Brit Finucci, who named it in honor of her grandmother. “Avia” means grandmother in Latin, and Finucci chose this name to reflect both her grandmother’s Support and the ancient lineage of chimaeras, often referred to as the “grandparents” of modern fish.

What sets Harriotta avia apart from other ghost sharks is its elongated, narrow snout, large eyes, and long, broad pectoral fins. Its chocolate-brown color and sleek, slender body make it a truly remarkable discovery. Until recently, this species was thought to be part of a single global population, but further research has revealed its genetic and physical differences from other spookfish.

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