Title: Unveiling the Mystery of the Newly Discovered Chimaera Supapae off Thailand’s Coast
Introduction:
A new species of chimaera has been discovered off the coast of Thailand. This creature, named Chimaera supapae, has a massive head, giant eyes, and feather-like fins.
Exploring Chimaeras – The Ghost Sharks:
Chimaeras, also known as “ghost sharks,” belong to a group of cartilaginous fish related to sharks and rays. Live Science highlighted that cartilaginous fish are among the oldest fish species alive today.
The Shortnose Chimaera Species:
The newly described species, Chimaera supapae, belongs to the shortnose chimaera category, as explained by researchers. This significant discovery was documented in a paper published in the journal Raffles Bulletin of Zoology on March 6.
Habitat and Feeding Habits:
Ghost sharks are inhabitants of the deep sea where sunlight does not penetrate. They reside at depths exceeding 1,640 feet near continental slopes and ocean ridges. These intriguing fish primarily feed on bottom-dwelling creatures like crustaceans and mollusks, according to Live Science.
Characteristics of Chimaera Supapae:
Chimaera supapae can reach lengths of up to 20 inches and possesses broad pectoral fins that aid in moving along the sea floor. Researchers suggest that these fins play a crucial role in the creature’s mobility.
The Discovery Location:
It’s noteworthy that the newly discovered species, Chimaera supapae, was found off the Andaman coast of Thailand. This remarkable finding was a part of a deep-sea survey conducted in 2018, where the fish was discovered deceased.
Significance of the Discovery:
David Ebert, the lead author of the study and program director of the Pacific Shark Research Center at San Jose State University, emphasized the rarity of Chimaeras in this region. With only 54 known species worldwide, the discovery of Chimaera supapae contributes significantly to understanding the diversity of marine life in the deep sea.
Insights into Evolution and Marine Biodiversity:
Researchers ascertain that chimaeras represent one of the oldest fish lineages, dating back 300-400 million years. The discovery of Chimaera supapae underscores the vast unexplored territories within the marine environment, shedding light on the mysteries of evolution and biodiversity.
In conclusion, the unveiling of Chimaera supapae off Thailand’s coast offers a compelling glimpse into the enigmatic world of deep-sea creatures. This discovery not only adds to the existing knowledge of marine life but also underscores the importance of continued exploration and conservation efforts in safeguarding these remarkable species.