A newly discovered species of ghost shark, known for its remarkably long nose and whip-like tail, has been found in the deep ocean off the coast of New Zealand. Initially, researchers from New Zealand’s National Institute for Water and Atmospheric Research (Niwa) thought it belonged to a known global species. However, upon further examination, they determined that it is, in fact, a genetically unique species.
This newly recognized ghost shark has been named the Australasian narrow-nosed spookfish and is exclusive to the waters surrounding New Zealand and Australia. Ghost sharks, which are also referred to as chimaeras or spookfish, are a rare type of cartilaginous fish related to both sharks and rays. With their smooth skin, beak-like teeth, and prominent pectoral fins, they are sometimes called the butterflies of the ocean due to their elegant movements through the water. These elusive creatures primarily feed on crustaceans like shrimp and mollusks, living at depths of up to 2,600 meters, and much remains unknown about their biology and any threats they may face.
"Ghost sharks are incredibly under-researched, and there’s a lot we still haven’t uncovered about them," explained Dr. Brit Finucci, a fisheries scientist at Niwa who was instrumental in this discovery. "Chimaeras are quite elusive – they can be difficult to spot in the deep ocean…and they don’t attract as much research attention as sharks do."
The newfound species was located in the Chatham Rise, approximately 750 kilometers east of New Zealand’s coastline. Its most notable characteristic is its elongated snout, which comprises half of its body length and is believed to enhance its hunting capabilities. This species can reach lengths of up to one meter, featuring chocolate-brown skin, large milky eyes, and a serrated dorsal fin that likely serves as a defense mechanism against predators.
Around 55 species of ghost sharks have been identified worldwide, with about 12 of those located in the waters of New Zealand and the South Pacific. While the researchers initially suspected they had found a new species based on its physical features, genetic analysis was necessary to confirm this. The moment they received confirmation was exhilarating for Finucci.
"It’s really exciting to contribute to scientific knowledge," she remarked. "Understanding this animal can inform additional research and help determine whether conservation efforts are required."
In a heartfelt tribute to her grandmother, Finucci named the species Harriotta avia: Harriotta after her grandmother’s name, and avia, meaning grandmother in Latin. "I was also inspired by the idea that… sharks and ghost sharks are ancient relatives of fish, and I was naming this species after an ancient relative of mine," she added.