An unknown species of shellfish discovered in the Suva Harbour has been sent to the United States for further research and analysis.

The shellfish was caught through the use of traps in the Suva Harbour.

This has been confirmed by Minister for Fisheries Semi Koroilavesau, who says the discovery is possibly linked to climate change.

“The only scientific explanation for why it was found at the harbour is due to climate change and how it affects sea surface temperatures,” Mr Koroilavesau said.

“This causes species to be seen in areas they are not normally seen.”

The discovery is now on its way to an aquarium in the United States for further research.

Walt Smith International Limited company Director Walt Smith said research results would decide if the discovery in Fiji is a new species.

“The possible new species could be confused with the Nautilus pompilius species but the scientists were pretty sure they have discovered a new species,” he said.

“The research being conducted will tell us if this is true.”

The company, which specialises in exporting various marine life through sophisticated methods of aquaculture, is facilitating the shipment and thanked various stakeholders for their help.

“The Ministry of Fisheries was very helpful, they contributed a lot and the Ministry of Environment issued the CITES permit which was a very important step in the whole process,” Mr Smith said.

“The USP stored the find in their lab for a week before the export.”

Edited by Epineri Vula

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