Story Highlights
- Cartilaginous fish are one of the oldest fishes ever found
- The latest species discovered is one type of shortnose chimaera
New Species of Chimaera Discovered off the Coast of Thailand
A new kind of chimaera, named Chimaera supapae, with giant eyes, massive heads, and feather-like fins was found off the coast of Thailand. Chimaeras, also known as “ghost sharks,” are a type of cartilaginous fish not related to rays and sharks.
Details of the Discovery
Cartilaginous fish, including chimaeras, are among the oldest fishes still found. The newly discovered species was documented by scientists in a paper published in the journal Raffles Bulletin of Zoology on March 6.
Habitat and Characteristics
The ghost sharks, found in the deep sea’s dark waters without sunlight, live at depths below 1,640 feet near continental slopes and ocean ridges. They feed on bottom-dwelling animals like mollusks and crustaceans. Chimaera supapae can grow up to nearly 20 inches long with broad pectoral fins that aid in its movement along the sea floor.
Significance of the Discovery
The discovery of Chimaera supapae is significant for scientists as it contributes to understanding the diversity of life in the deep sea. These chimaeras belong to one of the oldest lineages of fishes, dating back 300-400 million years, highlighting the importance of exploring and studying marine environments.
Lead author of the study, David Ebert, emphasized the rarity of chimaeras in the region and noted that this discovery brings the total known species to 54, shedding light on the vast unexplored marine ecosystem.
Discoveries like Chimaera supapae remind us of the vastness of the marine environment and the endless opportunities for exploration and learning.