During marine research in the Coral Triangle, Australian scientists uncovered a previously unknown species of walking shark, notable for its unique white dash patterns and named after a senior researcher.
- New walking shark species found in Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea
- Distinctive white dashes set it apart from related sharks
- Named Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, honoring the lead researcher
What happened
In 2025, a team led by the University of the Sunshine Coast was studying walking sharks near Papua New Guinea when student Jess Blakeway noticed an unusual shark with white dashes instead of the familiar leopard-like spots. Upon further surveys at 35 different sites, the team identified 12 individuals exhibiting this unique pattern.
Genetic analysis confirmed the shark as a new species within the genus Hemiscyllium, leading to its official recognition in June 2026. The species was named Dudgeon’s walking shark in honor of senior researcher Chris Dudgeon, marking the first new discovery in this genus since 2013.
Why it feels good
Discovering a new species always brings excitement to the scientific community and reinforces the value of marine exploration and conservation. Walking sharks are fascinating creatures known for their ability to 'walk' across seafloor using paddle-shaped fins, a behavior quite rare among sharks.
This new finding also shines a light on the Coral Triangle, a global biodiversity hotspot sometimes called the 'Amazon of the Seas.' It’s a reminder of the incredible variety of life yet to be understood and protected in our oceans, inspiring hope amid concerns about habitat loss and climate change.
What to enjoy or watch next
The research team plans to return to Papua New Guinea for further study in October to gather more data about Dudgeon’s walking shark. Their goal is to contribute vital information to assess its conservation status, potentially classifying it as vulnerable or endangered.
Meanwhile, nature enthusiasts and ocean lovers can follow updates from the University of the Sunshine Coast and related marine science publications to learn more about walking sharks and other remarkable underwater discoveries. Keeping up with such research highlights the ongoing journey to protect ocean ecosystems worldwide.