First records of Chimaera opalescens (Holocephali: Chimaeriformes: Chimaeridae) from Madeira and north-west African coast

Abstract

This study reports new findings of Chimaera opalescens Luchetti, Iglésias et Sellos, 2011, which represent new records of this fish from Madeira and Morocco. The specimens were caught at the depths between 800 and 1221 m. Additional specimens deposited in the Natural History Museum of Funchal (MMF) were also studied as a comparative material and the results are reported herein. The new records of C. opalescens extend the previously known area of distribution of this fish further south.