Rare Victory: Critically Endangered Red Handfish Hatchlings Thrive in Captivity
Researchers at Tasmania’s Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) recently celebrated a remarkable breakthrough in conservation efforts. Peering into a tank, they discovered a cluster of tiny, vibrant yellow babies — hatchlings of the critically endangered red handfish.
The red handfish, native to southeastern Tasmania, is one of the rarest fish in the world. According to the Handfish Conservation Project, only about 100 adult red handfish are thought to exist in the wild. These distinctive fish are known for their “walking” behavior, using their pectoral fins to move along the seabed in a manner reminiscent of hands, a feature that has captivated marine biologists.
IMAS researchers announced the birth of 21 baby red handfish in a Facebook post, marking a significant milestone in efforts to save the species. Though the clutch is small, it represents a quarter of the estimated wild population — a monumental achievement for a species teetering on the brink of extinction.
“Having successfully bred the red handfish in captivity for two consecutive seasons, we’re encouraged by this progress,” said Dr. Andrew Trotter, an IMAS researcher, in a press release. “Our current goal is to raise these hatchlings into healthy sub-adults and release them into their natural habitat to help restore the population.”
Conservationists are cautiously optimistic about the long-term survival of the red handfish. “The captive breeding program has been a bright spot, but there’s still much work ahead to secure this species’ future,” added Dr. Jemina Stuart-Smith, co-leader of the IMAS threatened species team.
As the hatchlings grow, researchers will continue their efforts to ensure these rare creatures thrive in the wild, offering hope for the recovery of this extraordinary species.