Possible new ghost shark species discovered off Costa Rica

Researchers may have discovered a new species of ghost shark (chimaera) off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, a finding that could expand knowledge of deep-sea biodiversity. The animal was found near Cabo Blanco and Isla del Caño, at depths between 390 and 787 meters, and exhibits distinct physical traits such as a shorter snout, darker coloration, and a longer dorsal spine Source: elconfidencial. However, scientists are cautious: while the discovery was announced as a new species named Rhinochimaera costaricana by some outlets, other experts emphasize that further genetic and morphological comparison is needed to confirm it as distinct Source: clarin.

The creature

Ghost sharks are cartilaginous fish related to sharks and rays, belonging to the group Chimaeriformes. They split from sharks nearly 400 million years ago and inhabit deep, dark waters Source: clarin.

Disagreement among sources

• Elconfidencial reports that the specimen's features do not fully match known species, and that similar specimens have been found near Peru and Chile, requiring more study before declaring it a new species Source: elconfidencial.
• Clarin states the species has been formally identified as Rhinochimaera costaricana based on three male specimens collected between 2000 and 2023, with genetic analysis showing no reproductive contact with other groups Source: clarin.

This discrepancy highlights the ongoing scientific process: initial research suggests a new lineage, but formal description may require additional evidence.