- Classification
- CHONDRICHTHYES
- HETERODONTIFORMES
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Fish Classification
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Class
CHONDRICHTHYES Sharks, rays ... -
Order
HETERODONTIFORMES Bullhead Sharks -
Families
HETERODONTIDAE(1)Horn Sharks
Order HETERODONTIFORMES
Common name: Bullhead Sharks, Horn Sharks
Summary:
A small order of primitive and distinctive bottom-dwelling sharks with a single family, the Heterodontidae.
Bullhead or horn sharks have bony crests or ridges above the eyes, a small terminal mouth and two dorsal fins, each preceded by a large, stout spine. The sharp grasping teeth at the front of the jaws, and the crushing molars at the rear are ideal for feeding on hard-shelled invertebrates. Females lay spiral-shaped egg cases.
The heterodontiform fossil record dates back to the Early Jurassic.
Bullhead or horn sharks have bony crests or ridges above the eyes, a small terminal mouth and two dorsal fins, each preceded by a large, stout spine. The sharp grasping teeth at the front of the jaws, and the crushing molars at the rear are ideal for feeding on hard-shelled invertebrates. Females lay spiral-shaped egg cases.
The heterodontiform fossil record dates back to the Early Jurassic.
Author: Dianne J. Bray
Cite this page as:
Dianne J. Bray, Bullhead Sharks, HETERODONTIFORMES in Fishes of Australia, accessed 20 Apr 2024, https://fishesofaustralia.net.au/home/order/20
Order References
Compagno, L.J.V. 2001. Sharks of the World. An annotated and illustrated catalogue of shark species known to date. Bullhead, mackerel and carpet sharks (Heterodontiformes, Lamniformes and Orectolobiformes). Rome : FAO, FAO Species Catalogue for Fisheries Purposes No. 1 Vol. 2 269 pp.