Rare walking fish spotted in Australia - first in 25 years

Scientists from the research vessel of the Australian State Association for Scientific and Applied Research (CSIRO) reported about the discovery of the rarest walking fish off the coast of Tasmania.

It was possible to photograph the creature using an underwater vehicle at a depth of 292 meters near a remote island in Bass Strait. The fish most likely belongs to the species Pezichthys compressus. Its representatives are able to walk along the bottom on fins, using them as hands.

Previously, such fish were seen in the wild only twice: in 1986 and 1996. In both cases, they were seen off the Australian state of Victoria. Scientists have little data on this species, habitat and size of individuals. However, they noted that this instance was significantly larger than the previous two.

In total, there are 14 known species of walking fish, seven of which live off the coast of Tasmania. Photographing them in natural conditions is incredibly difficult, since they are all distinguished by their “fear of cameras,” the scientists added.

The research vessel, led by CSIRO, has been studying the effects of climate on the marine environment and fisheries. Therefore, the meeting with Pezichthys compressus turned out to be even accidental.