ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

New ghost shark species discovered off Costa Rica

other · 2026-07-04

A new species of ghost shark has been identified near Cabo Blanco and Cano Island off the coast of Costa Rica. This fish exhibits a shorter snout, darker coloration, and a longer dorsal spine, distinguishing it from other species. The discovery was confirmed by Arturo Angulo Sibaja from the University of Costa Rica. Genetic analysis indicates no reproductive interaction with other ghost sharks. While similar specimens have been located near Peru and Chile, further comparisons are necessary. Currently, three other ghost shark species are recognized from regions including South Africa, Taiwan, and Australia. Naidely Vidaurre Quesada, a biology student, contributed to the specimen examination.

Key facts

  • New ghost shark species discovered near Cabo Blanco and Cano Island, Costa Rica
  • Fish has shorter snout, darker coloration, longer dorsal spine
  • Discovery announced by Arturo Angulo Sibaja, University of Costa Rica
  • Only ghost shark species known for Central American coast
  • Genetic analysis shows no reproductive contact with other ghost sharks
  • Similar specimens found near Peru and Chile require further comparison
  • Three other ghost shark species known from South Africa, Taiwan, Australia, Japan, and Atlantic
  • Naidely Vidaurre Quesada, a biology student, examined the specimen

Entities

Artists

  • Arturo Angulo Sibaja
  • Naidely Vidaurre Quesada

Institutions

  • University of Costa Rica

Locations

  • Costa Rica
  • Cabo Blanco
  • Cano Island
  • Pacific Ocean
  • Peru
  • Chile
  • South Africa
  • Taiwan
  • Australia
  • Japan
  • Atlantic Ocean
  • Greenland
  • Brazil

Sources