52 New Species Found on Indonesian Reefs, ENN, 09/18/06 Source:
Environmental News Network WASHINGTON, DC, September 18, 2006
(ENS) - Scientists exploring waters off Indonesia's Papua
province have discovered a remarkable array of new fish and
coral species. The reefs off the coast of the Bird's Head
peninsula could comprise the world's most biologically diverse
marine area, according to Conservation International
researchers, and should be one of the planet's most urgent
marine conservation priorities. During two recent surveys of the
Bird's Head Seascape, CI scientists discovered 20 new coral
species, 24 new fish species and eight new species of mantis
shrimp. The new species include a small nocturnal shark that
walks across the sea floor on its fins and a "flasher" wrasse, a
brown fish that flashes brilliant colors to attract females. The
scientists described the findings as remarkable even within an
area already known for its rich biodiversity. The seascape lies
with the "Coral Triangle" of the Pacific, w