Dudgeon's Epaulette Shark: A Newly Identified Species
On June 17, 10:30 AM, researchers unveiled a previously unknown walking shark from the genus Hemiscyllium in Papua New Guinea. Named the Dudgeon's epaulette shark (Hemiscyllium dudgeonae), it honors Dr. Christine Dudgeon. The discovery emerged from surveys conducted in Milne Bay Province between 2023 and 2025. These walking sharks are recognized for their distinctive color patterns, unique genetic markers, and highly localized ranges, with this find bringing the known total of similar species to ten.
Key Traits of the New Species
Epaulette sharks are small, predominantly nocturnal bottom-dwellers. They typically reach lengths of 70–80 cm, with the largest recorded specimen measuring 107 cm. Their habitats include shallow coastal areas like coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves, usually at depths under 10 meters, though they have been observed as deep as 50 meters. Due to their limited mobility and benthic lifestyle, these sharks occupy very restricted territories, spanning only a few hundred square meters to a few square kilometers.
What sets the Dudgeon's epaulette shark apart is its unique pattern of brown speckles interspersed with white spots and dashes across its body, along with a prominent eye-like marking behind the head. Genetic analysis indicates a close relationship with Hemiscyllium michaeli, suggesting a shared evolutionary lineage. Researchers have voiced concerns about the potential vulnerability of Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, given its likely narrow distribution.
“New shark species don't come along very often, and this is definitely the first one named after me.”
Dr. Christine Dudgeon
The team plans to gather more data during an expedition in October, aiming to help the IUCN Red List classify the species as vulnerable or endangered, according to Jess Blakway.
This discovery underscores the critical need for marine biodiversity research, especially in regions where species have restricted ranges. It also carries significant ecological implications: vulnerable species like Hemiscyllium dudgeonae require urgent conservation measures to prevent extinction. In an era of climate change and increasing human impact, such findings can inform strategies to protect marine ecosystems.