Elusive Ruby Seadragons Show Off on Camera for First Time

One of many 4 preserved specimens which can be used to establish the uncommon species.

Credit score: Scripps Oceanography/UC San Diego

An elusive ruby seadragon that was beforehand recognized solely from museum specimens has been noticed alive in its pure habitat for the primary time.

The scarlet-colored fish (Phyllopteryx dewysea) was first found as a definite species in 2015, when researchers uncovered a misidentified preserved specimen whereas learning the 2 recognized species of seadragons — the orange-tinted leafy seadragon and the yellow-and-purple widespread seadragon. Because the discovery, scientists have sought the 9.Four-inch-long (24 centimeters) ruby seadragon within the wild. Now, a workforce of researchers have noticed two ruby seadragons on video for almost 30 minutes within the waters off Western Australia, within the Recherche Archipelago.

Utilizing a small remotely operated car (ROV) in waters greater than 160 toes (50 meters) deep, the researchers waited a number of days earlier than recognizing the uncommon fish. These observations of the ruby seadragons within the wild have led to a better understanding of the distinctive species' anatomy, habitat and conduct, the scientists stated. [Move Over, 'Game of Thrones': 9 Real-Life 'Dragons']

Past its distinctive pink shade, the ruby seadragon differs from the opposite two forms of seadragons as a result of it lacks leaf-like appendages. Earlier than witnessing the fish within the wild, researchers had been not sure if the ruby seadragon specimens in museums had misplaced their appendages over time whereas in assortment.

"It was actually fairly a tremendous second," Josefin Stiller, a marine biologist with Scripps Oceanography and co-author of the brand new examine, stated in an announcement. "It by no means occurred to me seadragon may lack appendages as a result of they're characterised by their stunning camouflage leaves."

Provided that the ruby seadragon's habitat is deeper and extra barren than that of its cousins', the ruby seadragon probably misplaced its leaf-like appendages by evolution, in line with the researchers. Its ruby shade might be an evolutionary trait, as camouflage within the deeper, dimly lit waters, they added.

The scientists additionally found that the fish has a prehensile, or curled tail, just like that of the seahorse and in contrast to the opposite seadragon species. Additional examine of the species is required to find out why the curly tail developed.

The brand new analysis was revealed on-line at the moment (Jan. 13) within the journal Marine Biodiversity Information.

Authentic article on Dwell Science.

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