The rare Lembeh Sea Dragon, also known as the Thread Pipefish (Kyonemichthys rumengani), was discovered in the waters of Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental, on May 17, 2026, attracting the attention of underwater photographers from across the country. Closely related to seahorses, this extraordinary species is remarkably slender—barely wider than a piece of thread—and almost completely translucent, allowing it to blend seamlessly with drifting algae. It is commonly found clinging to algae, overhanging reef walls, or whip corals using its prehensile tail. Usually seen alone or in pairs, the Lembeh Sea Dragon becomes more active during dusk and nighttime.
To document the discovery, the Department of Tourism Region 10, in partnership with the Local Government of Laguindingan, organized an underwater expedition on June 13–14, 2026. The team successfully documented five live specimens, confirming the presence of this rare and elusive species in Laguindingan’s rich marine ecosystem and highlighting the area’s growing importance as a destination for marine biodiversity and underwater photography.
Browse photos below courtesy of Dindo Bibera Nueza (DBN Underwater Photography).
Barely wider than a piece of thread, this tiny creature can easily go unnoticed, even by experienced divers.
