Overview

• The new species, Sphyrna alleni, was discovered by researchers from Florida International University and is named after philanthropist Paul G. Allen.
• Sphyrna alleni was initially overlooked due to its resemblance to the bonnethead shark, Sphyrna tiburo.
• The discovery was a collaborative effort involving scientists and Belizean fishers, who helped collect tissue samples and measurements.
• Paul Allen's foundation funded the Global FinPrint initiative, which played a crucial role in identifying the new species.
• Belize has implemented strong shark conservation measures, offering hope for the protection of Sphyrna alleni from overfishing and extinction.