New coral species is named after ‘Star Wars’ character Chewbacca

A new “hairy” deep-sea coral species has been named after Chewbacca.

Researchers were reminded of the Star Wars character after the discovery in the tropical western Pacific.

The coral, named Iridogorgia chewbacca, is known for its long, flexible branches and shiny surface.

The species earned its nickname because the coral’s furry-looking branches and upright, lone-standing appearance reminded researchers of the furry Wookie seen in the sci-fi saga.

Les Watling, professor emeritus at the University of Hawaiʻi Mānoa’s School of Life Sciences and co-author of the study published in Zootaxa, recognised the coral while reviewing research from colleagues in China.

His earlier work in Hawaiʻi waters and collaborations with NOAA expeditions helped confirm that it was a new species.

“Seeing this coral for the first time was unforgettable,” Watling said. “Its long, flexible branches and shape immediately reminded me of Chewbacca. Even after years of deep-sea work, discoveries like this still make me stop and take notice.”

The coral itself was first seen in the wild in 2006, but at the time was not officially described as a distinct species.

Only after further research, including genetic analysis, did scientists confirm its uniqueness and formally recognise it as a new species in a peer-reviewed study.

The discovery adds to scientists’ understanding of the biodiversity hidden in the deep ocean and demonstrates that even long-studied regions like the Pacific still hold surprises.