The Solomon Islands and Ningaloo in Western Australia were the sites of a surprising new discovery, with scientists from the University of Queensland identifying a new species of giant clam in their reefs.
The vivid new species was hiding in plain sight, at first appearing very similar to another common species of clam. However, using DNA analysis scientists were able to confirm the species was genetically distinct.
This discovery will likely have implications for giant clam management, as many are listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species.
Read more at The University of Queensland