New Deep-Sea 'Ghost Shark' Species Discovered off Costa Rica
Summary
Scientists have discovered a new species of deep-sea fish called Rhinochimaera costaricana off the coast of Costa Rica. This ghost shark species was identified using physical traits and genetic tests, highlighting how little is known about deep ocean life in the region.Key Facts
- Rhinochimaera costaricana is a new species of long-nosed chimera, a type of cartilaginous fish related to sharks.
- The species was identified from three male specimens collected at depths between 390 and 787 meters.
- It differs from similar species by having a shorter snout, taller dorsal fin, a wider gap between dorsal fins, and fewer small bony tail structures.
- Genetic tests showed DNA differences of 3.9 to 4.7 percent compared to other related species, confirming it as new.
- The discovery was made by Costa Rican and Brazilian researchers and published in the journal Zootaxa.
- This finding shows the deep Pacific Ocean near Costa Rica still holds many unknown species.
- New genetic tools are helping scientists find and classify deep-sea creatures that were previously misidentified.
- The discovery highlights the importance of protecting deep-sea ecosystems facing threats like fishing and climate change.
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