A new species of ghost pipefish, named Solenostomus snuffleupagus, has been discovered in the Southwest Pacific Ocean. Measuring just 1 to 1.5 inches long, the fish is distinguished by its dense covering of filamentous structures that give it a shaggy, hairy appearance — a trait that inspired its name after the Sesame Street character Mr. Snuffleupagus. The discovery was published in the Journal of Fish Biology by marine biologist David Harasti and ichthyologist Graham Short, who noted the fish’s remarkable camouflage, resembling floating red algae.

Ghost pipefishes are close relatives of seahorses and are known for their elusive nature and intricate mimicry. S. snuffleupagus diverged from its closest relatives around 18 million years ago and has more vertebrae than other species, confirming its status as a distinct species through CT scanning. Its 'hair' is not biological hair but external filaments attached to bony plates that function like an exoskeleton.

The fish was discovered during dives near Australia, and researchers noted its immediate visual similarity to the Muppet character. The team even reached out to Sesame Street Australia, who responded positively the next day. The discovery highlights how much remains unknown about marine biodiversity, especially among small, well-camouflaged species.