Squatinactis caudispinatus Lund & Zangerl, 1974
Chondrichthyies
Squatinactiformes
Squatinactidae
Early Carboniferous (Mississippian)
Bear Gulch Mbr, Heath Fm (Namurian, Serpukhovian)
Montana, US
Length: 1 m
The extension of the pectoral fins and flattening of the body has occurred several times in the evolutionary history of cartilaginous fish (rays, skates, etc..). Squatinactis is one early example. This is the sole known member of the order Squatinactiformes the exact affinities of which is currently unknown.
October 28, 2015
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