Sharks Gecko Discovered in Galapagos

Scientists who conduct research in the Galapagos Islands had found a new species of sharks called sharks gecko ( Bythaelurus giddingsi ) .

The findings were published in the journal Zootaxa published taxonomy on Monday ( 05/03/2012 ) . In English , the shark is called catsharks . But in fact , appearance more like a gecko .

The gecko shark was discovered by John McCosker of the California Academy of Sciences and Douglas Long , senior curator of Oakland Museum of California .

Specimens collected in the gecko shark research expeditions in 1995 and 1998 . Specimens taken by diving at a depth of 1400-1900 meters using the submersible Johnson Sea - Link .

Sharks gecko found with 30 other species of sharks . However , since the beginning of the study , Long has been realized that the shark is a type that has never been seen before .

Bythaelurus giddingsi has a pale brown color and distinctive spots . According to Long , there are spots that differ between one individual and another individual .

Size no larger than a cat shark gecko . So , these sharks do not have the ability to prey on humans . Typically , these sharks only hunt soft-bodied fish in the ocean floor .

For these findings , McCosker , as quoted by Discovery , Wednesday ( 07/03/2012 ) , said , " The discovery of a new species of sharks are always interesting , especially at the time when the shark face great pressure from humans . "

Sharks gecko has a very limited habitat that is more susceptible extinct . Need an effort to keep this species can remain sustainable .

The name is taken from the name of the shark gecko Al Giddings , nature film producer who delivered many works on the Discovery Channel .