Scientists discover 'ninja lanternshark' in Pacific Ocean
Digital Reporter
Thursday, December 24, 2015, 12:05 PM - Marine biologists have found a new species of shark in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Central America.
Dubbed the "ninja lanternshark," the animal has jet black skin that contains photophores, that make the fish glow as it hunts its prey in the deep waters.
"We felt those unique characteristics would make this species stealthy like a ninja. The common name was actually proposed by my little cousin," scientist Vicky Vásquez told Mashable.
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Lanternsharks glow enough to hide their shadows, according to Vásquez.
The species scientific name - Etmoterus benchleyi - pays homage to the writer of "Jaws," Peter Benchley.
"Although a lot of people are aware of the negative backlash that the movie created for sharks, most are not aware that Mr. Benchley took positive action by creating the Benchley Awards, which [seek] to recognize people that have made lasting contributions to ocean conservation," Vásquez told Mashable.
About eight ninja lanternsharks have been found since the first one was located in 2010. The biggest specimen measured at 51 cm long.
