New Ghost Pipefish Species Named After Sesame Street's Mr. Snuffleupagus

A new ghost pipefish species has been identified as Solenostomus snuffleupagus, named after the beloved character Mr. Snuffleupagus from Sesame Street. Marine biologist David Harasti first encountered this species in 2003 near Papua New Guinea, but it wasn't until 2022 that he and ichthyologist Graham Short gathered two specimens at the Great Barrier Reef. Comprehensive studies, including CT scans and DNA analysis, verified it as a distinct species, detailed in the August edition of the Journal of Fish Biology. Measuring approximately 1.5 inches, it mimics floating algae for camouflage and possesses more vertebrae than its relatives. Notably, one specimen contained smaller fish in its stomach, marking the first recorded instance of fish consumption in the Solenostomus genus. Harasti received approval from Sesame Workshop for the name. Observations on iNaturalist indicate its presence across the southwest Pacific, including regions near Fiji, New Caledonia, and Tonga, showcasing various colors. This discovery underscores the significance of coral habitats in harboring cryptic, yet-to-be-described species, even in extensively studied locations like the Great Barrier Reef. Ichthyologist Kory Evans from Rice University likened the discovery to "finding Bigfoot, except that he's teeny tiny."