A research team from China has officially identified a new fish species, named Mononoke tilefish (Branchiostegus sanae), in the South China Sea.

The findings were published on Wednesday in the international taxonomic journal Zookeys.

The research, conducted by the Chinese Academy of Sciences' South China Sea Institute of Oceanology in collaboration with Zhejiang University and Ocean University of China, led to the discovery of this species in the continental slope area between Hainan Island and the Xisha Qundao islands, at a depth of approximately 200 meters.

Huang Haochen, the first author of the study, noted the economic significance of this newly described species, which is categorized alongside deepwater tilefish known for their culinary value.

Despite their importance, there has been limited scientific inquiry into these fish that dwell in deeper ocean waters.

The Mononoke tilefish is identified locally as the 'ghost horsehead fish' due to its unique head shape and has been informally recognized by fishermen along the South China Sea coast.

In 2023, researchers collected specimens that allowed for thorough scientific examination.

Morphologically and genetically, the Mononoke tilefish shows distinct differences from other known tilefish species.

All specimens so far were collected from regions between Hainan's Lingshui Li Autonomous County and the Xisha Qundao, although researchers believe its habitat may extend to the northwestern slope of the South China Sea, as outlined by Chen Jingxuan, the second author of the study.

With this addition, the total number of recognized tilefish species in Chinese waters has increased to six.

The Mononoke tilefish can grow to lengths exceeding 40 centimeters, marking it as a noteworthy addition of medium-to-large fish species discovered in recent years.

Future research endeavors into its biological characteristics and evolutionary lineage are anticipated to enhance understanding of local biodiversity and support sustainable fisheries practices in the region.