New Damselfish Species Found in Maldives

In December 2024, an extraordinary scientific milestone was achieved in the Maldives with the discovery of a new damselfish species named Chromis abadhah. This groundbreaking finding was the result of an international collaboration of marine scientists, who uncovered the species inhabiting the deep-sea coral reefs in the mesophotic zone of the Maldives. The discovery adds to the country’s rich marine biodiversity and highlights the importance of global scientific partnerships in exploring uncharted marine ecosystems.

Background of the Discovery

• The discovery was made in December 2024 by an international team of scientists.
• The species was found in the mesophotic zone, a region of deep-sea coral reefs in the Maldives.
• It is the first recorded instance of Chromis abadhah anywhere in the world.

Naming and Significance

• Named by the Marine Research Institute as Chromis abadhah.
• The term “abadhah” signifies “perpetual” in Dhivehi, symbolizing the enduring nature of the ocean.
• The naming honors the Rolex Perpetual Planet initiative, which supported the expedition.

Habitat and Distribution

• Recorded in eight different locations spanning 180 km from Lhaviyani Atoll to Dhaalu Atoll.
• Likely to be present in other areas of the Maldives as well.

Physical Characteristics

• Coloration: Pearly white body with pale blue undertones.
• Darker coloration along the back and lighter below the eyes.
• Eye Features: Silvery-blue circle surrounding a darker central portion of the iris.
• Scales: Reflective scales below the eyes.
• Preservation Changes: Blue hue fades to reddish-brown when preserved.

Ecological and Scientific Importance

• Expands the understanding of mesophotic zone biodiversity.
• Highlights the need for continued exploration and conservation of deep-sea ecosystems.
• Emphasizes the role of international collaboration in marine research.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Discovery of a New Damselfish Species: Chromis abadhah
Species Name	Chromis abadhah
Meaning of Name	“Perpetual” in Dhivehi; honors the Rolex Perpetual Planet initiative.
Discovery Location	Mesophotic zone, deep-sea coral reefs, Maldives
Recorded Range	8 locations across 180 km, from Lhaviyani Atoll to Dhaalu Atoll
Unique Features	– Pearly white body with pale blue undertones. – Darker back, lighter below eyes, silvery-blue iris. – Reflective scales below eyes; blue hue fades to reddish-brown when preserved.
Ecological Significance	Highlights mesophotic biodiversity; calls for marine ecosystem exploration and conservation.
Funding Initiative	Supported by the Rolex Perpetual Planet initiative through Luiz Rocha’s Rolex Award for Enterprise.