A review of walking shark (Hemiscylliidae: Hemiscyllium) distributions in Papua New Guinea and description of a new species (opens in new tab)

Walking sharks (Hemiscyllium) comprise 9 morphologically similar species whose identification relies on distinctive color patterns, genetic markers, and geographically restricted distributions. The genus is endemic to Australia and the island of New Guinea, a region that coincides with the global hotspot for carpet shark diversity (Orectolobiformes) that has been shaped by complex tectonic and sea‑level histories. Although knowledge of walking shark distributions has been updated over the pas...