Scientists have discovered a new species of oceanic fish, the Atlantic sixgill shark, which was previously thought to be the same as the Pacific sixgill shark. Genetic testing confirmed the Atlantic sixgill shark is a distinct species. Growing up to 16 feet in length and found in deep waters across the Atlantic Ocean, it was discovered to have previously been mistakenly counted in conservation efforts as a single species. The Atlantic sixgill shark has important implications for conservation efforts because scientists can now direct their efforts towards protecting the unique genetic lineage of the shark.
Scientists Discover New Species of Oceanic Fish
Researchers have recently discovered a new species of oceanic fish, which they have named the Atlantic sixgill shark. This shark, which belongs to the Hexanchus genus, was previously thought to be the same as the Pacific sixgill shark, but genetic testing has confirmed that it is a distinct species.
The Atlantic sixgill shark is a large, predatory fish that can grow up to 16 feet in length. It is found in deep waters across the Atlantic Ocean, from Canada to Brazil, and has a diet of fish, crabs, and squid.
According to Dr. Toby Daly-Engel, a shark biologist and lead author of the study that identified the new species, the Atlantic sixgill shark is an impressive predator. “It’s like a big, scary monster out of a Hollywood movie,” she said. “It’s a beautiful animal and an impressive specimen.”
The discovery of the Atlantic sixgill shark has important implications for conservation efforts. Up until now, scientists have been treating the Pacific and Atlantic sixgill sharks as a single species, which meant that conservation efforts for one species may not have been effective for the other. Now, conservationists can direct their efforts towards protecting the unique genetic lineage of the Atlantic sixgill shark.
The discovery of new species is always exciting news for scientists and the general public alike. But it is important to remember that this is just one example of the incredible diversity of life that exists in our oceans. Scientists estimate that there are still hundreds of thousands of undiscovered species in the world’s oceans, and the more we learn about these creatures, the better equipped we will be to protect them.
FAQs
Q: Is the Atlantic sixgill shark dangerous to humans?
A: There have been very few reported incidents of Atlantic sixgill sharks interacting with humans. Like all sharks, however, they should be approached with caution.
Q: Why did it take so long for scientists to discover this new species?
A: The Atlantic sixgill shark is a deep-sea species that is difficult to study. It is only thanks to advances in genetic analysis that scientists have been able to confirm that it is a distinct species.
Q: How can we protect the Atlantic sixgill shark?
A: The discovery of the Atlantic sixgill shark as a distinct species means that conservationists can focus their efforts on protecting this unique genetic lineage. This could involve measures such as setting up marine protected areas and regulating fishing practices in areas where the Atlantic sixgill shark is found.
