Frilled sharks [Chlamydoselachidae]

Description

Chlamydoselachidae, known as frilled sharks, is a family characterized by their eel-like bodies and six pairs of gill slits, which are fringed and appear 'frilly'. These ancient sharks are deep-sea dwellers and have a prehistoric appearance, with a mouth full of needle-like teeth for capturing soft-bodied prey. They are seldom observed and are considered to be living fossils, with only a few species known, such as the frilled shark (Chlamydoselachus anguineus) and the Southern African frilled shark (Chlamydoselachus africana).

Genera

Taxonomy