If we hear about a walking shark, it is very likely that a huge fish walking calmly comes to mind. However, it is a very distant relative of the well-known predator we are used to seeing in the movies. A group of researchers has managed to discover a small one whose existence was a complete secret to the rest of the world.

This small type of shark is about 90 cm long.

Earlier this year, scientists from Conservation International, the Indonesian Institute of Sciences, the University of Queensland, the University of Florida and SCIRO published a paper explaining in detail what they have discovered about the curious walking shark.

“They are very robust and can survive in extremely hot environments with little oxygen. They can even walk on land,” said Dr. Mark Erdmann of Conservation International.

These curious animals are found exclusively in northern Australia, New Guinea and Indonesia’s Raja Ampar, Aru and Halmahera islands.

“These small sharks “walk” with their pectoral and pelvic fins. This helps them to stick their heads under coral and rocks to look for fish, snails and crustaceans to feed on,” explained Dr. Mark Erdmann.

For many years, specialists thought that sharks were one of the species that could take the longest to evolve. However, those who discovered this curious walking shark decided to work with a geneticist and conducted a series of DNA tests that revealed otherwise.

These sharks only come out of hiding to hunt at night.

Apparently, the curious walking shark is the most recent relative of sharks and has been around for 9 million years.

“It may seem like a long time ago, but sharks have ruled the oceans for more than 400 million years. This shows their evolutionary power.”

This is a wonderful sign that sharks have the ability to adapt to environmental changes. So far, it is estimated that there are about 9 species of these curious animals. Now, the main thing is to immediately protect these curious species that are so valuable to our ecosystem.

“As climate change accelerates, the real concern is for their habitats. They have also become attractive for display in aquariums,” Erdmann explained.

There is no doubt that the animal world will never cease to amaze us. It is a pity that these beautiful sharks are under threat from irresponsible people and the countless damages of global warming. We need to join forces to protect them and so many other animals that need our help.

Did you know about the existence of these curious sharks? Feel free to share this unusual finding that has surprised many.