In a groundbreaking moment for marine biology, the elusive ghost shark, a phantom of the deep sea, has been captured on camera for the first time. This rare sighting of the abyssal ghost shark (Hydrolagus trolli), a ghost-like deep-sea fish from the genus Chimaera, marks a significant discovery in the understanding of deep-sea species.
The ghost shark, typically found in the dark depths of most of the world’s oceans, was unexpectedly recorded near California and Hawaii during deep-water surveys conducted by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV). Initially identified as a pointy-nosed blue chimaera, this species is usually native to the waters near Australia and New Zealand, making its presence in the Northern Hemisphere a remarkable find.
Despite not being actual sharks, ghost sharks are closely related to them, having diverged from a common ancestor approximately 400 million years ago. Surviving even before the dinosaurs, Chimaera species are considered living fossils. These creatures are equipped with sensory organs on their heads, resembling stitches, which are crucial for detecting movements and vibrations in the water, aiding in their hunt for prey like mollusks, worms, and other invertebrates.
The ghost shark’s appearance is striking, with distinctive black eyes and Frankenstein-like “stitches” on its body. Male chimaeras are known for their unique retractable sex organs located on their foreheads. Additionally, they possess a venomous spine in front of their dorsal fins, serving as a defensive mechanism against predators.
The recording of this ghost shark, achieved by the geologists of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute in California, provides invaluable insights into the mysterious life of these deep-sea dwellers. The rarity of such footage underscores the vast unknowns of the deep sea and the continuous need for exploration and study of these enigmatic creatures.
