Female <i>Cirrhilabrus wakanda</i> (Common Name 'Vibranium Fairy Wrasse') (IMAGE)

California Academy of Sciences

Female <i>Cirrhilabrus wakanda</i> (Common Name 'Vibranium Fairy Wrasse')

Caption

Using a microscope, the science team examined the wrasse specimens' scales, fin rays, and body structures. DNA and morphological analyses revealed the new fairy wrasse to be different from the other seven species in the western Indian Ocean as well as other relatives in the Pacific. The new species' common name is inspired by the fictional metal vibranium, a rare, and, according to Rocha, 'totally awesome' substance found in the Black Panther nation of Wakanda. The Vibranium Fairy Wrasse's purple chain-link scale pattern reminded the scientists of Black Panther's super-strong suit and the fabric motifs worn by Wakandans in the hit film.

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Luiz Rocha © 2018 California Academy of Sciences

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