Newly released footage from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute shows the pointy-nosed blue chimaera, also known as the abyssal ghost shark, for the first time. The footage, captured in 2009 by a remotely operated vehicle beneath a mile of water off the coast of central California, is a rar

FAQ

1. What is a ghost shark?

A ghost shark, also known as a chimaera, is a type of deep-sea fish that belongs to the subclass Holocephali. They are closely related to sharks and rays, but have distinct characteristics such as a venomous spine on their dorsal fin and a single gill opening. Ghost sharks are typically found in the depths of the ocean, ranging from 200 meters to as deep as 2,600 meters.

2. Why is this footage significant?

This footage is significant because it is the first time a ghost shark has been seen alive and swimming in its natural habitat. Previously, ghost sharks were only known from dead specimens that were caught in fishing nets or found washed up on shore. The footage provides valuable insight into the behavior and ecology of these elusive creatures and may help scientists better understand their role in the deep-sea ecosystem.

3. Where was the footage captured?

The footage was captured off the coast of California, near the Channel Islands, by a team of researchers from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI). The team used a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to explore the depths of the ocean and were able to film the ghost shark at a depth of 2,000 meters.

4. How do ghost sharks differ from other deep-sea creatures?

Ghost sharks have several unique characteristics that set them apart from other deep-sea creatures. They have a distinctive, rat-like tail and large, green eyes that are adapted for low-light environments. They also have a venomous spine on their dorsal fin that they use for defense and a tooth plate instead of individual teeth. Additionally, ghost sharks are known to lay eggs rather than giving birth to live young, which is a common adaptation in deep-sea creatures.

5. What is the scientific name for the ghost shark?

The scientific name for the ghost shark is Chimaera. There are several species within the genus, including the pointy-nosed blue chimaera and the rabbit fish chimaera. They are also sometimes referred to as ratfish, spookfish, or rabbitfish, depending on the species and location.