New Species of Ghost Shark Discovered near Australia and New Zealand

Scientists have made an exciting discovery in the deep ocean waters near Australia and New Zealand—a new species of ghost shark. The Australasian Narrow-nosed Spookfish, or Harriotta avia, was recently identified by researchers from New Zealand's National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) in the Chatham Rise region off the east coast of New Zealand's South Island. 
 
This newly discovered ghost shark has unique genetic and morphological characteristics that set it apart from previously known species. While scientists had initially believed that spookfish belonged to a single globally distributed species, further study revealed distinct differences that led to the identification of this new species. 
 
Ghost sharks, scientifically known as chimaeras, are cartilaginous fish closely related to sharks and rays. These mysterious creatures have skeletons primarily composed of cartilage rather than bone. Their embryos develop inside egg capsules laid on the sea floor, where they feed on egg yolks until hatching. Once hatched, ghost sharks primarily feed on crustaceans such as shrimp and molluscs. 
 
The Harriotta avia stands out with its elongated, narrow, and depressed snout; long, slender trunk; large eyes; and very long, broad pectoral fins. Its striking chocolate brown coloration adds to its unique appearance. Ghost sharks like this one typically inhabit depths of up to 2,600 meters (8,530 feet), making them challenging to study and monitor effectively. 
 
Despite their elusive nature, discoveries like these provide valuable insights into the biology and diversity of deep-sea ecosystems. Fisheries scientist Brit Finucci at NIWA expressed her excitement about this discovery by naming the new species after her grandmother—Avia means grandmother in Latin. 
 
Chimaeras are considered ancient relatives or "grandmas" and "grandpas" of modern fish species due to their evolutionary history dating back millions of years. By giving this new ghost shark species a meaningful name tied to her family legacy, Finucci pays tribute to her grandmother's support throughout her scientific career. 
 
In February 2022, Finucci was part of a team that made another significant discovery involving a newly-hatched ghost shark found at a depth around 1...