Maghriboselache mohamezanei (Klug et al 2023, Late Devonian, 365mya) was originaly considered unique due to its snout, broader than the eyeballs. The authors did not realize basal sharks, like Rhincodon, often have long optic nerves and eyeballs not tucked into their orbits. A sister taxon, Cladoselache also has a broad rostrum (see above). The premaxillary teeth are fused to form a parasymphysal tooth. The nares were anteriorly oriented. The cranium was raised as a parasagittal crest. A jugal is present, and labial cartilages were not. The genus is known from several wonderfully preserved complete skeletons (of cartilage!), some male (with dorsal spine) and others femaile (without dorsal spine). |