French Polynesia reveals unique orange-tailed clownfish species

French Polynesia reveals unique orange-tailed clownfish species (Image: Earth)

Marine scientists have identified a previously unknown clownfish species. Found in French Polynesia, it lives inside poisonous sea anemones. Researchers confirmed it through genetic analysis and physical characteristics. The discovery highlights hidden biodiversity and reef ecosystem importance.

New Clownfish Species Discovered in French Polynesia

Scientists have discovered a new clownfish species in reefs recently. The species has been named as 'Amphiprion maohiensis' by researchers formally. Divers previously saw orange-tailed fish but assumed it was known.

After looking closely, they were surprised to see this unknown clown fish species. The genetic and morphological studies confirmed this population is distinct species.

Where It Lives Among Poisonous Anemones? 

This fish inhabits the tentacles of venomous sea anemones safely. The host anemone species is Radianthus magnifica, which is locally abundant. Anemone provides shelter, while fish offers food scraps and movement. This mutualism benefits both species and stabilise reef ecosystems.

Who Named the Fish and Why? 

The species name honours the Polynesian term “maohi” meaning local. The researchers hope the recognition highlights hidden biodiversity in ocean reefs. Scientists contributed photos, helping map colour patterns across islands. The conservation efforts can now target this endemic population specifically.

How Scientists Confirmed Its Identity? 

Researchers compared Polynesian fish to western Pacific populations carefully. Morphology showed fin lengths slightly longer than western cousins consistently.

The mitochondrial DNA of this fish is differed by 1.5 percent, indicating long divergence. The whole-genome sequencing reinforced distinct clustering of the Polynesian population.

What Makes It Unique in Appearance?

The body colour varies from light orange to dark yellow. Two pale bars appear behind eye and mid-body consistently observed. All fins and the tail are orange, not white elsewhere. Tail colour distinction helped identify new species accurately and reliably.

Why This Discovery Matters Globally? 

Clownfish are popular but still harbour undiscovered species diversity worldwide.
Understanding fish-anemone mutualism helps protect coral reef ecosystems effectively.
Accurate species identification aids conservation, research, and sustainable aquarium trade. This discovery underscores the need to explore remote reefs carefully.