Researchers have determined that dolphins found in southeastern Australia represent a previously unknown species, BBC reported.

Researchers have determined that dolphins found in southeastern Australia represent a previously unknown species. [File photo]

Around 150 of the dolphins live around the Melbourne area and had until now been assumed to be one of the known bottlenose dolphins. But detailed DNA studies and analysis of skulls in museums showed these in the small population are in fact a different and unrecognized species.

Kate Charlton-Robb, a PhD researcher at Monash University’s School of Biological Sciences, found the inquisitive and playful dolphins differed greatly from any other species worldwide.

Biologist Kate found dolphins to be unique, comparing skulls, external characteristics and a number of DNA regions from the current day population as well as specimens dating back to the early 1900s.