Scientists Discover Amazing New Species of "Walking Shark" in Papua New Guinea

Scientists have identified a new species of “walking shark” from Papua New Guinea, adding to the biodiversity known in the Coral Triangle. The species is identified as Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, a shark capable of using its fins to “walk” on sand at low tide. Researchers recorded 12 individuals in a published study, ranging from 15.43 to 30.75 inches long, including two females and 10 males. Genetic testing confirmed it as a distinct species, and researchers said it can be recognized by well-defined white spots and dashes, plus two large dark spots near the spiracle and below it. The shark is currently known only from Milne Bay Province in eastern Papua New Guinea, between the Amphlett Islands and the Trobriand Islands. Observations place it in shallow waters less than 16 feet deep among seagrass and reef outcrops, and available data suggest a depth range of about 1.5 to 39 feet. Further surveys are needed to confirm its wider distribution.