New Walking Shark Species Discovered in Papua New Guinea

Researchers have identified a new species of walking shark, Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, discovered in the shallow reef waters of Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea. This finding brings the total number of recognized walking shark species to 10, according to a study published in the Journal of the Ocean Science Foundation. Unlike many deep-sea shark discoveries, this species thrives in water less than three feet deep, highlighting significant, undocumented biodiversity in accessible coastal zones.

How Was the New Species Identified?

The identification process began when researchers from the University of the Sunshine Coast were surveying reefs for another species, Hemiscyllium michaeli, or “Michael’s walking shark.” Christine Dudgeon, a senior research fellow, noted that the specimen they encountered displayed a distinct pattern of small white dashes and brown dots, differing from the leopard-like markings of the species they were tracking. After locating 11 additional individuals across three separate sites to confirm the pattern was consistent, the team utilized genetic sequencing to compare the shark’s DNA against known members of the Hemiscyllium genus. The genetic analysis confirmed that H. dudgeonae is a distinct species, according to the research team led by doctoral student Jess Blakeway.

Why Do Walking Sharks “Walk”?

Walking sharks possess a specialized biological adaptation that allows them to use their pectoral and pelvic fins to navigate the seafloor. This behavior is particularly effective during low tide, when coral reef flats become isolated from deeper ocean currents. According to research published by the Ocean Science Foundation, this “walking” ability enables the sharks to remain active and continue hunting prey in environments where oxygen levels fluctuate significantly. Scientists believe this trait evolved as an evolutionary response to the challenging, variable conditions of tropical reef ecosystems, allowing these sharks to survive in low-oxygen conditions for several hours at a time.

Conservation Status and Habitat Risks

The limited range of H. dudgeonae raises concerns regarding its long-term survival. Because walking sharks tend to remain near the reefs where they are born, they have a restricted geographic range, which limits their ability to recolonize areas if their habitat is destroyed. According to Dr. Dudgeon, species with such narrow distributions are often more vulnerable to environmental stressors, including climate change, habitat degradation, and overfishing. While the discovery of a new species is scientifically significant, the researchers emphasize that further study is required to map the full extent of the population and determine whether current conservation measures are sufficient to protect these animals.

Key Facts About Hemiscyllium dudgeonae

• Common Name: Dudgeon’s walking shark.
• Location: Watota, Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea.
• Habitat Depth: Less than 3 feet (1 meter).
• Distinguishing Features: Small white dashes and brown dots.
• Total Species: This discovery increases the known count of walking shark species to 10.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are walking sharks dangerous to humans?
No. According to the research team, walking sharks are part of a diverse group of elasmobranchs—including rays, skates, and chimeras—that pose minimal threat to humans. They are generally small, bottom-dwelling animals focused on hunting small invertebrates and fish.

Why is this discovery considered unusual?
Most new shark species are identified in deep-sea environments where human exploration is limited. Finding a new species in very shallow, accessible water underscores how much biodiversity remains to be documented even in regions that have been previously surveyed.