New Species of Carpet Sharks Discovered
FRIDAY, 22 FEBRUARY 2008
Two new species of wobbegongs, also known as carpet sharks, were found in Western Australian waters. At present, there are eight known wobbegong species in the country.
The newly discovered floral banded wobbegong was found between Geraldton and Augusta, while the dwarf spotted wobbegong was found between Green Head and Mandurah.
The wobbegongs, which scuba divers usually encounter, are sharks that are usually resting on the sea floor.
The largest species is the spotted wobbegong or Orectolobus maculatus, which grows up to 3.2 m long. Carpet sharks are generally harmless unless they are provoked, just like when scuba divers or snorkelers poke or touch them, or block their escape route.
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