PREVIEW

A new species of fish that has an unmistakably "grumpy" appearance has been discovered off the coast of Saudi Arabia.

The Grumpy dwarfgoby, scientifically named 'Sueviota aethon', was first found in the reefs off Saudi Arabia’s Farsan banks, an area along the Red Sea. The small fish were observed swimming in tiny caves and under overhangs, living at depths between 33 and 174 feet below the water's surface. Despite its tiny size - measuring less than two centimetres - the Grumpy dwarfgoby stands out due to its large canine teeth and stern expression. The fish’s appearance varies, with some being dark red, while others have a yellowish-orange or white colouration.

Their eyes are particularly striking, with dark pupils encircled by iridescent golden rings. Their red colouration helps them blend into their surroundings, particularly the reef walls covered in red algae. The discovery was made by scientists from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and the University of Washington.

“I imagine in its own tiny world, it is a fearsome predator. Its grumpy expression and large canines certainly make it look the part, despite its small size!” said study co-author Lucía Pombo-Ayora