TaxonHub

Saint John & Worthen's Prehistoric Ratfish

Vaticinodus vetustus

An extinct cartilaginous fish species from the Carboniferous period, belonging to the Holocephali class of chimaeras, characterized by its unique dental structures within the Cochliodontidae family.

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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Shallow marine environments of North America during the late Paleozoic era, approximately 323-298 million years ago

Ecological Role

Played a significant role in marine food webs as a predatory marine vertebrate during the Carboniferous period, contributing to ecosystem dynamics and evolutionary biodiversity

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Smooth cartilaginous integument characteristic of early holocephalian fishes
  • LIMBS WINGS Possessed cartilaginous fins for marine navigation and predation
  • HEAD SENSORY Likely possessed advanced sensory capabilities for detecting prey in marine environments
  • BODY STRUCTURE Typical chimaera body plan with a robust, torpedo-shaped form adapted for marine locomotion
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
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Related Species in Cochliodontidae