New fish species discovered in the Gulf of Mexico

[+thexfile Subscriber²]

Hamlets (Hypoplectrus) live in coral reefs in the Caribbean and the tropical northwestern Atlantic. They are predatory fish and feed on small fish and invertebrates. There are currently 18 recognized species, seven of which have been described in the last 14 years. Hamlets are essentially distinguished by their color patterns, which vary from species to species and are largely genetically determined. The fish can grow 10 to 15 centimeters in size.

With an average size of 11 centimeters, the newly discovered species Hypoplectrus espinosai, commonly known as the "Campeche Bank Hamlet," is one of the small species. Its caudal peduncle, which connects the caudal fin to the body of the fish, is completely covered by a black saddle patch. This marking extends over the rear part of the body and sometimes also over the posterior part of the dorsal fin.

https://phys.org/news/2025-04-fish-species-gulf-mexico.html

 

[cork1958]

Just have to say it and you probably knew someone would, but where is this Gulf of Mexico you speak of? 🤭

[seta-san]

There are so many wonders in the gulf of America.