Stingray’s new species discovered on the coast of Central and South America

Gender Hipanus It consists of ten popular species scattered along coastal habitats around the world. Until recently, only two species – known as long sttingray (Hipanus Longus) and diamond sttingray (Hypanus dipterurus)) – They were recognized in the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP), while the rest were found in the western Atlantic and on the western coast of Africa. Now, a newly described species, Hipanus rubioiJoins the list! And while one can believe that this is a recent discovery, scientists have actually studied this beam for two decades, documenting its distinctive features and confirming its classification through anatomical and molecular analysis.

For years, local fishermen in the waters of the Colombia Pacific had captured rays that did not match the well -known local species, but without the official classification, these specimens remained unidentified. Between 2003 and 2023, researchers examined a total of 90 individuals – 47 females, 40 males, and three non -separated specimens – collected from landing landing lands along the Colombian Pacific coast. Many of the captured rays were evoked, or removed their tail for sale, which complicated the ability to identify the researchers properly. However, a dedicated research navigation at Umbela Bahía Málaga National Natural Park allowed scientists to collect intact specimens and tissue samples for genetic sequences, eventually leading to confirmation of H. Rubioi as a new species.

Longnose Pacific Stingray (this is H. Rubioi “Ordinary name”) stands out of other rays in the area due to the unique shape of the body and impressive size. With a disc width of about 49 inches (125 cm) and a ratio length in width between 1.0 and 1.1, its spade -shaped shape is unlike other species in gender. Its open snout extends nearly 30% of its disk width, while its tail (which touches smoothly) can increase in more than twice its body size! It also has three rows of expanded-bishop prosthesis, similar to teeth-descending the back, with the central row extending to its caudal stroke. Genetic analysis also confirms that this sttingray is not only a change of an existing species, but a completely new addition to Hipanus Lines. DNA comparisons using COI gene – a standard genetic marker for species identification – detected significant differences between Stingray Longnose Pacific and her closest relatives. In particular, its genetic distance from West Atlantic Longnose Stingray (Hipanus Guttatus), its closest relative known, ranges from 2.27% to 2.94%, further strengthening its classification as a separate species. Phylogenetic analysis puts Longnose Pacific Stingray as a sister species to H. GuttatusWhich means they share an ordinary ancestor, but have since evolved separately.

Understanding where this new Stingray lives and how it fits into its environment is as important as its identification. As the other Hipanus Species, Stingray Longnose Pacific is likely to be a residential beam at the bottom that prefers sandy or muddy coastal habitats, including bays, estuaries and seafood. Preliminary ecological modeling of the niche suggests that its range can be extended from central Mexico to North Peru, influenced by factors such as salinity and light availability. These habitats are critical for the survival of many Stingray species, but are increasingly threatened by human activities. Many are caught as Bycatch in fishing, while others are directly intended for consumption. Habitat degradation, pollution and climate change also pose risks for these predators. Out of ten acquaintances Hipanus Species, some have been assessed as tangible or endangered by the International Union for Nature Conservation. For example, IUCN Sharpsnout Stingray Order (H. Geijskesi) and small sttingray (H. Rudis) as critically endangered while the long sttingray (one of Longnose Pacific Stingray, regional stingray counterparts) are listed as tangible. Even species classified as closely threatened, such as Western Atlantic Longnose Stingray, indicate declining population trends. Without proper monitoring and storage efforts, the same risks can be applied to Stingray Longnose Pacific.

Stingrays are an essential part of the ocean ecosystems, often serving as predators and prey. Accurate species identification allows scientists to better understand population sizes, habitat preferences and threats, leading to more effective management strategies. In the case of Longnose Pacific Stingray, the lack of clear classification had previously resulted in the wrong capture, making it difficult to evaluate its status. Now, with its official recognition, conservatives can begin to properly evaluate population health and possible weaknesses.

Continuous exploration and research are essential, not only for expanding our knowledge of marine life, but to ensure that the newly discovered species receive the necessary protection. The discovery of this new stingray also raises broader questions about biodiversity in the Eastern Tropical Pacific. If a large species, special Stingray remained undocumented for so long … what else can be hidden in these waters?