Palaeocarcharias
Extinct genus of sharks
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Palaeocarcharias is an extinct genus of shark, known from the Jurassic of Europe. It has only a single named species, Palaeocarcharias stromeri, which is known from exceptionally preserved specimens from the Late Jurassic (Tithonian) of Germany (Solnhofen Limestone) and France (Canjuers Lagerstatte) [1]. Isolated teeth of indeterminate species from England (White Limestone Formation, and possibly the Forest Marble and Taynton Limestone) extend the range of the genus back to the Middle Jurassic (Bathonian).[2] Morphologically, it closely resembles carpet sharks (Orectolobiformes),[3] and is around 1 metre (3.3 ft) in total body length.[4] However, it shares greater similarities in tooth development with mackerel sharks (Lamniformes), including the absence of orthodentine, and has been suggested to the earliest known member of the Lamniformes or a member of a sister group to the Lamniformes.[5][3] A 2018 study suggested that should be classified as the sole member of the order Palaeocarchariiformes,[5] but a subsequent 2023 study questioned this and favoured placement in Lamniformes.[2] A 2024 study of a specimen from Canjuers suggested that as that it was in fact a true carpet shark, perhaps a member of Orectolobidae (the wobbegongs).[6]
| Palaeocarcharias Temporal range: Middle-Late Jurassic | |
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| Specimens of P. stromeri from the Upper Jurassic of Germany | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Chondrichthyes |
| Subclass: | Elasmobranchii |
| Division: | Selachii |
| Superorder: | Galeomorphi |
| Genus: | †Palaeocarcharias Beaumont, 1960 |
| Species: | †P. stromeri |
| Binomial name | |
| †Palaeocarcharias stromeri Beaumont, 1960 | |
