Researchers working in the western Pacific Ocean near Japan and the Philippines discovered several brightly colored fish with unique characteristics. They were a new species.
Researchers believe that the creature New species of rockfishNeomerinthe ignea, according to a study published Nov. 6 in the journal Ichthyological Research. Also known as the Pacific Flame Rockfish, this fish was previously confused with another similar species, the Neomerinte.
Research shows that neomerinte is typically found in tropical and temperate Indo-Pacific waters. This creature is distinguished by its 12 spines on the dorsal fin, 24 vertebrae, and unique scales and teeth.
Research shows that the new species of neomerinthe is distinguished from other species by its unique spines and scales.
Scientists say the fish is bright orange to reddish-white in color with black spots on its body. Their eyes have black pupils, and the irises are mottled with black and yellow bars that radiate from the center.
Researchers said they collected 38 “small” fish specimens ranging from about 1.5 inches to about 3.5 inches in length. The Pacific Flame Rockfish has a “steep” snout, a compressed body, and a “large” mouth filled with short, pointed teeth.
Experts say the new species has tentacles that cover its body, especially in dense areas on the sides of the body near the head, which are associated with the spine. Tentacle sizes range from “large” to “extremely small.”
Scientists named the new species after the Latin word for “burning” because of the color of its body and tentacles, according to the study.
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