Scientists in New Zealand have discovered a new species of "ghost shark" - a rare type of fish that is incredibly hard to spot because it lives at great depths in the Pacific Ocean. Also known as a spookfish or chimera, ghost sharks are closely related to sharks and rays. They do not have scales and their skeletons are made completely of cartilage.

Dr Brit Finucci, one of the scientists who discovered the Australasian Narrow-nosed Spookfish, said the find was "exciting". "Their habitat makes them hard to study and monitor, meaning we don't know a lot about their biology or threat status," she said.

Dr Finucci and other researchers from New Zealand's National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (Niwa) found the creature in an area of ocean floor known as Chatham Rise, which lies to the east of New Zealand. Ghost sharks typically live at depths of up to 2,600m (1.6 miles).

Dr Finucci said the species stood out for its unusually long snout, which can make up half its body length. She has given the new fish a scientific name with a personal twist: Harriota avia. “Avia means grandmother in Latin, I wanted to give this nod to her because she proudly supported me through my career as a scientist,” Dr Finucci explained. “Chimaeras are also rather ancient relatives – the grandmas and grandpas – of fish and I thought the name was well suited.”

The spookfish was initially thought to be part of a species found around the world. However, research later revealed it was genetically different to its cousins and lived exclusively in Australian and New Zealand waters.

Scientists say discoveries like this are crucial, because learning more about how the species lives helps experts figure out the best ways to protect them.

Exploring the Deep Sea

The discovery of the Australasian Narrow-nosed Spookfish highlights the vastness and mystery of the deep sea. Despite its vastness, much remains unknown about the creatures that inhabit these depths, and their role in the ocean's ecosystem. This new species is a reminder of the importance of continued exploration and research in the deep sea. It also highlights the potential for unexpected discoveries, even in well-studied regions.

Implications for Conservation

The discovery of this new species raises crucial questions about the conservation of deep-sea species. Because of their remote habitat, it is difficult to study and monitor ghost sharks. The lack of understanding about their biology and threat status emphasizes the need for further research to ensure their protection. Scientists are still working to understand the impact of human activities, such as fishing and climate change, on deep-sea ecosystems.

A Spooky Discovery

The discovery of this new ghost shark species, with its eerie appearance and deep-sea habitat, has captivated the imagination of the public. Ghost sharks, with their haunting black eyes and smooth, light brown, scale-free skin, are truly a sight to behold. Their beak-like mouths are adapted for feeding on crustaceans in the depths of the ocean. This new species is a testament to the wonders of the natural world and the constant potential for discovery. As we continue to explore the depths of the ocean, we can expect to uncover more fascinating creatures like the Australasian Narrow-nosed Spookfish, each with their unique adaptations and stories to tell.

The Future of Deep-Sea Research

This discovery underscores the importance of continued research in the deep sea. It is a reminder that the ocean holds countless mysteries waiting to be unraveled, and with each new discovery, we gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of life on Earth. Scientists around the world are working tirelessly to map the ocean floor, identify new species, and study the complex ecosystems that thrive in the deep sea. These efforts are crucial for understanding the health of our planet and protecting its diverse lifeforms.