New fish species discovered in Maldives

A new species of fish has been discovered from the Maldives once again.

The species was discovered by a group of researchers conducting a survey in the Maldives through a fund of Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. This is the second such discovery of the team.

The fish, which belongs to the Plectranthias genus was named ‘Plectranthias raki’ by the researcher team, explaining the name was given to fish based on its behavior of fleeing quickly upon being discovered.

The new fish was discovered across the reef below 100 and 125 meters from sea level.

There are currently 57 recognized species in the Plectranthias genus, including the Plectranthias ahiahiata (or ‘sunset perchlet’), Plectranthias kami, and Plectranthias maculicauda (or ‘spot-tail perchlet’).

This genus is not known for posing any threats or dangers to humans, and is a popular genus of fish species among marine researchers.