Could this new ghost shark inhabit other parts of Central and South America?

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New Ghost Shark Species May Have Wider Distribution in Pacific Waters

Costa Rican scientists suggest that the recently identified ghost shark species may inhabit a broader range along the Pacific coast of Central and South America. Preliminary comparisons of specimens from Costa Rica with those previously collected near Peru and Chile indicate significant similarities, prompting further investigation into its potential distribution. This new discovery, provisionally named Rhinochimaera costaricana, is the first of its kind documented along the Central American coast.
Potential for Wider Distribution

Researchers posit that the newly found ghost shark likely has a more extensive presence along the Pacific coastlines of both Central and South America. This hypothesis is being explored through ongoing comparisons of the Costa Rican specimens with earlier collections made in waters off Peru and Chile. The initial observations suggest a close relationship between these geographically separated populations.
Distinct Characteristics of the New Species

The ghost shark identified near Costa Rica exhibits several distinguishing features compared to other known species. These include a noticeably shorter snout, a darker overall colouration, and a significantly longer spine on its dorsal fin. Genetic analysis has also indicated that this new species does not engage in reproductive activity with other known ghost sharks, suggesting a degree of isolation.
Evolutionary Context of Ghost Sharks

Ghost sharks, belonging to the family Rinochimaera, are cartilaginous fish distantly related to sharks. Their evolutionary lineage diverged from sharks approximately 400 million years ago. Globally, three other species within this group have been identified in disparate locations such as the waters off South Africa, Taiwan, Australia, Japan, and in the Atlantic Ocean between Greenland and Brazil, highlighting the diverse geographical spread of this ancient fish group.

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Could this new ghost shark inhabit other parts of Central and South America?

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