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Newly Discovered Walking Shark Species Found Off Papua New Guinea Coast

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Marine biologists have recently discovered a new species of walking shark, Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, enriching the remarkable family of reef-dwelling sharks that utilize their four fins to “walk” along the ocean floor. This exciting find emerged from the waters of eastern Papua New Guinea.

Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, male paratype from Nubwageta, Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea. Image credit: MV Erdmann.

These walking sharks belong to a group of 10 similar species of carpet sharks, each identifiable by unique color patterns, genetic markers, and localized distributions.

The Hemiscyllium genus is endemic to Australia and the islands of New Guinea, a region renowned for its rich diversity in carpet shark species shaped by intricate tectonic and sea-level changes.

Typically small and nocturnal, walking sharks reach lengths of 70-80 cm, with the largest individuals documented at 107 cm.

These species prefer shallow coastal areas, such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves, generally inhabiting depths of less than 10 meters, though they can be found as deep as 50 meters.

Due to their limited mobility and benthic lifestyles, the home ranges of walking sharks are constrained, usually spanning just a few hundred square meters to a few square kilometers.

Additionally, these sharks are oviparous, laying small, oval-shaped egg cases on the ocean floor, restricting their dispersal abilities.

Although research has expanded our understanding of walking shark distributions over the past two decades, the endemic species of eastern Papua New Guinea still require further study.

In a groundbreaking study, Dr. Christine Dudgeon and her team from the University of the Sunshine Coast explored the distribution of walking sharks in eastern Papua New Guinea.

“New species of sharks are a rare find, and this is certainly the first shark named in my honor,” remarked Dr. Dudgeon.

The newly identified Hemiscyllium dudgeonae was discovered during a survey that took place from 2023 to 2025 in Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea.

This species, commonly referred to as the Dudgeon Epaulette Shark, features a unique coloration characterized by brown freckles and white spots throughout its body, alongside a distinctive eye-like marking on the back of its head.

Genetic analysis indicates that this new species is closely related to Hemiscyllium micheli.

Researchers expressed concern for Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, noting its limited range makes it particularly vulnerable.

“We anticipate that the IUCN Red List will classify this species as vulnerable or critically endangered,” said Jess Blakeway, a PhD student at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

The study has also updated the known distributions of Hemiscyllium micheli and another walking shark species from Papua New Guinea, Hemiscyllium hallstromi.

“Our research has altered our understanding of walking shark habitats,” Blakeway stated. “It was previously believed that each species occupied distinct habitats separated by barriers, but we now know they have overlapping distributions in eastern Papua New Guinea.”

This new species marks the 10th addition to the genus of Epaulette sharks found in Papua New Guinea.

Currently, there are five endangered species listed under the IUCN Red List, which applies to only 3% of all sharks.

The team’s findings are detailed in a paper published on June 15th in the Marine Science Foundation Journal.

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J.-A. Blakeway et al. 2026. Distribution and description of new species of Walking Shark (Hemiscylliidae: Hemiscyllium) in Papua New Guinea. Marine Science Foundation Journal 46: 71-110; doi: 10.5281/zenodo.20575429

Source: www.sci.news

Newly Discovered Walking Shark Species in Papua New Guinea: A Groundbreaking Scientific Find

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Hemiscyllium dudgeonae - Newly identified walking shark

Newly Confirmed Walking Shark Hemiscyllium dudgeonae

MV Erdmann

A remarkable new species of walking shark has been discovered off the coast of Papua New Guinea, capable of traversing coral reefs with most of its body out of the water.

Local fishermen have long observed this unique fish, known as Kadededewa, which translates to “dog shark” or “lazy shark.”

This newly classified shark belongs to the Hemiscyllium genus, commonly referred to as walking sharks or epaulette sharks. These fascinating sea creatures navigate by using their pectoral fins like legs and are typically found in Australia and New Guinea.

The new species has been named Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, in honor of Christine Dudgeon, a professor at the University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, who was part of the team that formally identified this species.

Dudgeon first encountered this walking shark in March 2025, while swimming in a seagrass meadow in Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea, only a meter deep.

Initially searching for another species, she unexpectedly stumbled upon the shark: “It was very slow, and after spending some time in the water, I noticed it swimming near the bottom,” she recalled.

Using a flashlight to illuminate the shark, which measured approximately three-quarters of a meter, caused it to freeze in a defensive response. Dudgeon then carefully used a technique called “flip and tuck” to secure the shark for study.

Christine Dudgeon with Hemiscyllium dudgeonae

Nesha Ichida

Once securely captured, Dudgeon passed the shark to her colleague, Jess Blakeway, who was stationed on a nearby drifting boat.

Blakeway noted the distinct color pattern immediately, which differed from previously studied species: “It was evident that this shark was unique compared to other documented species,” she stated.

While the other nine known species of walking sharks predominantly feed on invertebrates from the ocean floor, they share similarities in size and appearance. Their skin patterns are their most distinguishing feature.

The species researchers anticipated discovering displayed more leopard-like markings; however, Hemiscilium dudgeonae exhibits a unique arrangement reminiscent of Braille or Morse code, according to Blakeway.

Over the following days, researchers captured 11 additional specimens from the surrounding areas, of which three were retained for detailed study and nine released after sampling.

This species is thought to reside exclusively within the coral reefs of Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea.

Nesha Ichida

In the lab, DNA testing confirmed that this new shark species is genetically distinctive from its relatives.

However, the walking sharks of Papua New Guinea face critical threats from habitat destruction, driven by coastal development, expanding palm oil plantations, and coral bleaching.

Researchers believe that Hemiscyllium dudgeonae may only inhabit the Milne Bay area and could be the most endangered species within this group.

“This species contributes to the incredible biodiversity of Papua New Guinea, but urgent conservation measures are necessary to prevent local extinction,” Blakeway urged.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Rediscovered: Two Ancient Marsupial Species Thought Extinct for 6,000 Years Found Alive in New Guinea

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Recent scientific research has unveiled two previously unknown species of marsupials within the remote rainforests of New Guinea’s Vogelkop Peninsula. The Pygmy Longfinger Possum (Dactylonax Kambuyai) and Wow Glider (Thus ayamalensis) are believed to have vanished around 6,000 years ago. These discoveries indicate that New Guinea’s rich forests may still conceal remnants of an ancient animal kingdom.

Pygmy Longfinger Possum (Dactylonax Kambuyai), a female spotted in the Kralik area of the Vogelkop Peninsula. Image credit: Carlos Bocos.

Professor Tim Flannery from the Australian Museum states: “The identification of a ‘Lazarus taxon’ is a remarkable event, especially when it was thought to be recently extinct.”

“The uncovering of two species once believed to be extinct for millennia is truly exceptional.”

“This discovery underscores the crucial need to conserve these unique biological regions and highlights the significance of collaborative research in safeguarding hidden biodiversity.”

The pygmy long-tailed possum and the ring-tailed glider, known through Pleistocene fossils found in Australia and New Guinea, inhabit secluded lowland forests of the Vogelkop Peninsula.

“Vogelkop represents an ancient section of the Australian continent, now part of New Guinea,” remarked Professor Flannery.

“Its forests may still harbor even more hidden aspects of Australia’s natural history.”

The Pygmy Longfinger Possum boasts striking stripes and remarkable adaptability, featuring one finger on each hand that is twice as long as the next longest finger.

This species is thought to have vanished from Australia during the Ice Age, a period notorious for the extinction of iconic megafauna, including the diprotodon and the marsupial lion.

Wow Glider (Thus ayamalensis), a subadult from the South Solon area of the Vogelkop Peninsula. Image credit: Arman Muharmansyah.

The ring-tailed glider is closely related to the Australian Glider (Petauroides) and marks the first new genus of marsupials identified in New Guinea since 1937.

Smaller than its relatives, this species features furless ears and a strong, prehensile tail, forming lifelong pair bonds and typically raising just one pup annually.

Similar to sugar gliders, these marsupials reside in tree hollows high within the forest canopy and face threats from logging practices.

“The glider, known locally as tous among some Tamburou and Maybrat communities, is deemed sacred,” shared Lika Koline, a Maybrat community member.

“It symbolizes the spirits of our ancestors and plays a key role in educational practices such as initiation ceremonies.”

“Our meticulous collaboration with Tamburou Elders was essential, and without the involvement of Traditional Owners, this identification would not have been feasible.”

“We are immensely proud that Papuan researchers have contributed to these groundbreaking findings. Our gratitude extends to the communities in Misool, Maybrat, and Tambulo for their continued support in this research,” stated Dr. Aksamina Yohanita from the University of Papua.

A detailed study discussing these findings was published on March 6th in the Australian Museum Records.

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Tim F. Flannery et al. 2026. “Reemergence after 6,000 years: A modern record of the ‘extinct’ Papuan marsupial, Dactylonax Kambuyai (Marsupial: Petauridae), revised phylogeny and zoogeography of the genus Dactylonax.” Records of the Australian Museum 78 (1): 17-34; doi: 10.3853/j.2201-4349.78.2026.3003

Source: www.sci.news

Rare ‘Lazarus’ Animals Discovered Alive in New Guinea After 7,000 Years of Believed Extinction

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Two remarkable species of marsupials, long considered extinct and previously known only from fossil records, have been rediscovered alive in New Guinea. This groundbreaking finding is the result of a collaborative effort involving scientists, indigenous communities, and citizen scientists.

The confirmation of the pygmy longfinger possum and the ring-tailed glider as living specimens marks a significant moment—it’s the first time these creatures have been seen in over 7,000 years. The announcement was made by Bishop Museum, based in Honolulu.

“As both a scientist and conservationist, it’s incredibly fulfilling to confirm their existence. This opens a new chapter in our journey to learn about and protect these fascinating animals,” stated Dr. Christopher Helgen from Bishop Museum.

For the past two years, Helgen and Dr. Tim Flannery of the Australian Museum have been dedicated to verifying the existence of these elusive mammals.

These two animals are categorized as “Lazarus species,” a term for species that re-emerge after being presumed extinct. “The discovery of two Lazarus species thought to be extinct for millennia is truly unprecedented,” Flannery noted in a press release.

Helgen believes this rediscovery underscores the idea that “extinction is avoidable.”

“This discovery offers a message of hope and a testament to second chances,” he added.

These species were initially discovered through fossils by Dr. Ken Aplin, who unearthed a critical tooth during an archaeological dig in western New Guinea in the 1990s.

Helgen’s observation of a photo featuring a gliding ring-tailed possum led to the identification of it as one of Aplin’s previously “extinct” species. Indigenous communities from West Papua’s Tambulo and Maybrat regions provided invaluable assistance by sharing their extensive knowledge about the marsupial’s unique lifestyle, according to a press release.

Recently, scientists confirmed the existence of the pygmy longfinger possum after discovering two preserved specimens at the University of Papua New Guinea.

The survival of the pygmy longfinger possum has been further validated by citizen scientists. Carlos Bokos, a citizen scientist and now co-author of the study, shared a photo of the species on iNaturalist, a global platform for documenting natural science discoveries.

This rewritten content maintains the original HTML structure while enhancing SEO through targeted keywords and phrases related to the discovery of species, collaboration, and conservation efforts.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

New Bird Species Discovered in Papua New Guinea: A Breakthrough in Avian Research

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Ornithologists have utilized camera traps to document a newly identified species of jewel bubbler in the lush karst forests of Papua New Guinea’s Southern Fold Mountains.

Camera trap images showcasing the holotype and two paratypes of Ptilorrhoa urrissia taken during a detailed 3-month sampling in a high-density array over 0.5 ha. The holotype (ac, marked ‘h’ in image a) and a paratype (a and d, marked ‘p’ in image a), an adult female and juvenile with female-type plumage, were photographed together on January 1, 2020. The shown image is from a sequence of 20 photos captured within 87 seconds. A putative adult male paratype (e) was photographed on March 8, 2020, from under 40 meters. Image credit: Woxvold et al., doi: 10.1111/ibi.70016.

The newly identified species falls under the genus Ptilorrhoa, known for small birds in the family Cinclosomatidae.

Commonly referred to as jewel bubblers, these unique birds are endemic to New Guinea.

According to Ian Wachsvold, an ornithologist with the Australian Museum Research Institute, “Jewel bubblers are a group of ground-dwelling, insectivorous passerines found exclusively in New Guinea and nearby land-bridge islands.”

“These birds are characterized by their plump bodies, short wings, black masks, and white throat or cheek patches, with many species having soft feathers adorned with blue or maroon markings.”

“Typically vocal but shy, they dwell deep within the forests, making them more often heard than seen.”

“Currently, there are four recognized species, with three found across much of New Guinea, differentiated mainly by their altitude – Ptilorrhoa caerulescens lives in lowland areas, while Ptilorrhoa castanonota resides in hills and low mountains; Ptilorrhoa leucosticta prefers dense forests.”

“The fourth species, the brown-headed jewel bubbler (Ptilorrhoa geislerorum), has been recorded in two geographically separated regions: the hills and lowlands of northeastern Papua New Guinea, and a recently discovered population presumed to be this species located far west of Yapen Island.”

In 2017, Dr. Wachsvold and Leo Regula from Lihir Gold Ltd. initiated a biennial camera trap monitoring program for ground-dwelling birds and mammals on the Igif Ridge (Uri [mount] Uricia in the local Fasu language), a limestone forested anticline situated on the southeastern fringe of the Agogo Mountains in the Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea.

Throughout this research, distinctive, undescribed jewel bubblers were captured on camera.

“During over 1,800 camera days, we recorded 10 images of the bird across three sequences (trigger events) using two cameras set approximately 600 meters apart,” the researchers noted.

“In November 2018, we attempted to set up mist nets to capture these birds but were unsuccessful.”

“Camera trap surveillance was repeated in 2019, 2021, and 2024, accumulating a total of 94 photographs (22 sequences) and seven 30-second videos (4 sequences) featuring at least three to six birds, with 11 cameras monitoring an area of 16 hectares.”

Analysis of museum specimens alongside field photographic evidence confirms that the bird in question distinctly differs from other known Ptilorrhoa species.

Pyroroa urrissia),” they stated.

Pyroroa urrissia appears to be a resident species in the Yagif Ridge area, with birds photographed consistently over a span of ten consecutive months (June through March) across seven years.

The total number of newly detected species during the sampling period probably comprises fewer than ten birds.

“This species tends to be observed alone, in pairs, or in small family groups of three to four,” the researchers highlighted.

“Data indicates a similar social organization to other jewel bubblers worldwide. The Pyroroa urrissia duo is frequently photographed together, with most records (all but 3 sequences of one male) gathered from a 7 ha area; most likely indicating two breeding events involving a resident pair and their offspring.”

“We hypothesize that the Igif Ridge supports a fragmented population occupying an isolated low mountain lacking higher altitude support for Ptilorrhoa leucosticta,” they add.

“Potentially suitable habitats may be restricted to regions between Mt Bosabi and Mt Karimui in southern Papua New Guinea.”

To date, no songs have been distinctly attributed to any Ptilorrhoa species aside from Ptilorrhoa castanonota, although the team did encounter vocalizations on the Igif Ridge.

The new species appears to produce softer calls compared to other species such as Ptilorrhoa caerulescens and Ptilorrhoa castanonota, while showing behavioral similarities to Ptilorrhoa leucosticta.

“Jewel bubblers on the Igif Ridge are threatened by multiple factors,” scientists warn.

“Known native predators include at least three marsupials, such as the New Guinea quoll (Dasyrus albopuntatus), the woolly three-striped dasher (Myoichthys leucula), and certain Murexia species. Furthermore, the Papuan eagle (Harpyopsis novaeguineae), goshawk (Accipiter poliocephalus), and the great owl (Tito tenebricosa) prey on the ground, possibly targeting adult birds or their young.”

“Invasive predators represent an additional significant risk, especially for ground-nesting species like the jewel bubbler.”

“Domestic cats (Felis catus) have been photographed on Igif Ridge thrice in 2021 and 2024.”

“Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are frequently spotted in the area, often accompanying hunters or loitering opportunistically.”

“Lastly, climate change poses a severe threat to tropical montane birds, particularly those like Pyroroa urrissia that have limited dispersal capabilities and no access to high-altitude environments on Igif Ridge.”

The findings of this significant discovery were published in a study in the journal Toki on November 26, 2025.

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Ian A. Wachsvold et al. A newly identified species of jewel bubbler (Cinclosomatidae: Ptilorrhoa) from Papua New Guinea’s Southern Fold Mountains. Toki, published online November 26, 2025. doi: 10.1111/ibi.70016

Source: www.sci.news

The discovery of three new fossil kangaroo species in Australia and New Guinea

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Three new species belong to the extinct genus Kangaroo Protemnodon was a common member of Cenozoic communities in Australia and New Guinea until extinction in the late Pleistocene.

Artist's impressions of newly described fossil species Protemnodon Viator and their relatives protemnodon anak, compared in scale with modern red kangaroos and eastern gray kangaroos. Image credit: T. Klarenbeek, Flinders University.

Protemnodon Kangaroos lived in Australia and New Guinea from about 5 million to 40,000 years ago.

The first species is Protemnodon Described in 1874 by British paleontologist Owen, he followed the common approach of the time, focusing primarily on fossilized teeth. He observed slight differences in teeth between specimens and described the teeth of six species. Protemnodon.

Protemnodon They looked similar to giant kangaroos, but were generally stockier and more muscular.

Some species weighed around 50 kg, while others were much larger than modern kangaroos.

However, one new species was named as part of the research – Protemnodon Viator – was much larger and weighed up to 170 kg. This is about twice the size of the largest male red kangaroo.

Protemnodon Viator They were well adapted to the arid habitats of central Australia and lived in areas similar to today's red kangaroos.

This species was a kangaroo with long limbs and could jump fairly quickly and efficiently.

The remaining two new species are Protemnodon Mamukura and Protemnodon dorsonae.

“Previously, some or all Protemnodon Dr Isaac Kerr, a paleontologist at Flinders University, says:

“However, our research suggests that this is true for only three or four species of animals. ProtemnodonIt could have animated things like quokkas and potoroos. Sometimes it would jump on four legs, sometimes on two legs. ”

“The newly described Protemnodon Mamukura Probably one of these. A large but thick-boned and strong kangaroo, it probably moved quite slowly and inefficiently. Perhaps it only rarely jumped when it was startled. ”

“The best fossils of this type come from Green Waterhole Cave in south-eastern South Australia, on the land of the Boadick people.”

“It is unusual for a single genus of kangaroos to live in such diverse environments. Protemnodon They are now known to inhabit a wide range of habitats, from the arid regions of central Australia to the rain-rich, forested mountains of Tasmania and New Guinea. ”

Protemnodon dorsonae Compared to the other two species, there are fewer known fossils and more mysteries. It was probably a medium speed hopper, something like a swamp wallaby.

“By about 40,000 years ago, all Protemnodon “It is now extinct in mainland Australia, but may survive for a little longer in New Guinea and Tasmania,” the authors said.

“This extinction occurred despite differences in size, adaptation, habitat, and geographic range.”

“For reasons that are not yet clear, the same thing did not occur in many similar relatives, such as wallaroos and giant kangaroos.” I might be able to answer that.”

“It's great that we now have some clarity on the identity of the animal species.” Protemnodon' said Professor Gavin Prideaux from Flinders University.

“Fossils of this genus are widespread and regularly discovered, but in many cases there is no way to be sure which species you are looking at.”

“This study may help researchers approach their studies with more confidence.” Protemnodon”

This finding is reported in the following article: paper Published in today's magazine Megataxa.

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Isaac AR Carr other. 2024. Systematics and paleontology of the late Cenozoic genus Kangaroo Protemnodon (Marsupialia, Megapoda). Megataxa 11(1); doi: 10.11646/megataxa.11.1.1

Source: www.sci.news