Cameras catch more wonders off Fiordland

WRITE STUFF: A 60cm sea pen (soft coral-like animal) discovered in Fiordland last month.

COLOURFUL: The ``traffic-light fish'', one of the marine species discovered in Fiordland.

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Underwater photographs have revealed more marine species in Fiordland waters that have never been seen before, according to scientists.

Last month, members of the Department of Conservation, National Institute of Water and Atmospheric research and Fiordland Guardians carried out a 10-day survey in the Dusky and Doubtful sounds.

Niwa scientist Dr Trevor Willis said it was yet to confirm the number of new species discovered, but it was likely to be between 10 and 50.

They would add to the 25 confirmed species found during the group's first survey in March, he said.

"Every time we do a survey, we could probably pick up another 20 new species."

Among the discoveries was a 60cm-high sea pen (a soft coral-like animal) and 25cm-long yellow fish with green and red fins, which Dr Willis dubbed the "traffic-light fish".

"We sent the sea pen video to an expert in California and he agrees it's probably a new species. It's not confirmed but he's the top guy in his field and had never seen it before."

The unique waters of Fiordland, which are darker, more sheltered and warmer than anywhere else in New Zealand, had created a "treasure trove of biodiversity" with unclear potential, Dr Willis said.

"We know of sea sponges with anti-tumour properties in them and some are being developed to help with cancer research," he said.

"It's probably getting a bit carried away to say they're a cure for cancer waiting to be found, but the potential is definitely there."

Fish surveys were done with a baited camera, which was lowered on to the floor of the fiords at depths of more than 200m.

michael.forbes@stl.co.nz

- © Fairfax NZ News