Measuring just 7.9 mm when fully grown, a “carp” scientifically named Paedocypris progenetica has recently been discovered in Sumatra, Indonesia, earning the title of the smallest vertebrate species in the world, according to a January 25 report from the journal “Proceedings of the Royal Society: Biological Sciences” from the UK.
This transparent fish has a very primitive skull structure, exposing its brain. Scientists assert that when fully mature, female Paedocypris can reach 10.3 mm, while males can grow up to 11.4 mm.
Additionally, a closely related species known as Paedocypris micromethes, which is slightly larger at 8.8 mm, has been identified in Sarawak, a territory located in Malaysia on the island of Borneo. These fish are particularly adapted to live in swampy forests filled with waterlogged trees, thriving in extremely acidic water conditions.
Previously, the record for the smallest vertebrate species was held by the dwarf white goby from the Indian Ocean, scientifically named Trimmatom nanus, which measures 8 mm when fully grown.
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