Overview
Collaborative studies between scientists at Te Papa and overseas have resulted in the discovery of a new goby-like fish in coastal areas, thought to be one of New Zealand’s smallest vertebrates, and a new brotula from the remote Kermadec Is.
Both new species are endemic to New Zealand, being found nowhere else in the world. One is widespread in coastal waters, while the other is restricted to a very small group of islands. Both species live in shallow rocky reefs at scuba diving depths, but are cryptic and remain hidden in cracks, crevices and caves. Their small size and life-style have hidden these unique fishes from discovery by previous fish surveys lacking cryptic sampling techniques.