A new species of walking shark, *Hemiscyllium dudgeonae*, has been discovered in the shallow reefs of southeastern Papua New Guinea. These sharks are notable for their ability to “walk” using their fins, navigating across the seafloor. The discovery underscores the significant amount of undocumented marine life still present in tropical regions. *Hemiscyllium dudgeonae* belongs to a small group of carpet sharks known for this unique locomotion. Researchers emphasize the importance of continued exploration and study of these vulnerable reef ecosystems. The finding contributes to a greater understanding of shark evolution and biodiversity in the Coral Triangle. This discovery highlights Papua New Guinea as a hotspot for marine biodiversity.
