While exploring seafloor fish habitats in western Australia, a research vessel accidentally discovered a live representative of a new species of shark. This species is distinguished from others by its unusual human-shaped molars, which is a unique feature. Scientists studying local waters have already named it the painted horned shark.
It was originally thought that the Heterodontiformes order, to which the new species of shark belongs, consisted of one genus and 9 different species. However, genetic analysis revealed that there are actually 10 species in the order Heterodontiformes. This discovery confirms the significant diversity of shark species and the nature of the marine ecosystem.
Both shark species, including the newly discovered species, have white coloration with 22 dark brown stripes and saddles. However, they have slight differences in markings on their muzzle and under their gill slits, allowing scientists to distinguish them. In addition, their eggs are also distinctive, which is another factor in species identification.
Painted horn sharks live at depths ranging from 125 to 229 meters. Their peculiarity is the placement of typical shark teeth at the front of the mouth, and behind them are molars with a more human-like morphology. This makes the new shark species a unique and interesting subject for further research.
This discovery not only expands our understanding of the diversity of shark species, but also emphasizes the importance of further research into the marine ecosystem. Scientists hope that studying the new shark species will help to better understand its role in the ecosystem and possible interactions with other species.
