Orectolobiformes

The Orectolobiformes are an order of sharks that contains approximately 40 species within nine families. They are often referred to as carpet sharks, wobbegongs, nurse sharks, and other names. These sharks are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They are characterized by their flattened bodies and broad, flattened heads. They are bottom-dwelling sharks that typically rest on the seafloor. Most Orectolobiformes are ambush predators that lie in wait for prey, often camouflaged against the seabed, and then quickly dart out to capture their prey. They are an ancient group, with fossil evidence dating back to the Jurassic Period.

Common Names

Orectolobiformes are commonly known by a variety of names, including:

  • Carpet sharks
  • Wobbegongs
  • Nurse sharks
  • Blind sharks
  • Epaulette sharks

Characteristics

Members of Orectolobiformes share several distinctive characteristics:

  • Flattened bodies: This allows them to lie flat on the seafloor and ambush prey.
  • Broad, flattened heads: This helps them to maneuver in tight spaces and to detect prey.
  • Small mouths: They are generally small, and located on the underside of the head.
  • Small, widely spaced eyes: Their vision is not as important as their sense of smell and electroreception in hunting.
  • Fleshy, fringed barbels: These sensory organs are located around the mouth, which assist them in detecting prey and navigation.
  • Five gill slits: Their gill slits are located on the sides of the head.
  • Two dorsal fins: The first dorsal fin is usually larger than the second.
  • A single anal fin: This is located behind the second dorsal fin.
  • A well-developed caudal fin: This is used for propulsion.

Environment

Orectolobiformes inhabit a wide range of marine environments, including:

  • Coastal waters: They are typically found near the shore, in shallow waters.
  • Coral reefs: Some species live in coral reefs, where they can camouflage themselves amongst the corals.
  • Seagrass beds: Many species are found in seagrass beds, where they can hide amongst the vegetation.
  • Sandy bottoms: Some species live on sandy bottoms, where they can burrow into the sand to hide from predators.
  • Rocky reefs: Others prefer rocky reefs, where they can find shelter among the rocks.

Diet

Orectolobiformes are primarily carnivorous, feeding on a variety of prey including:

  • Fish: They eat a variety of fish, including crustaceans, mollusks, and other invertebrates.
  • Crustaceans: They are also known to eat lobsters, crabs, and shrimps.
  • Mollusks: They can eat snails, clams, and other mollusks.
  • Other invertebrates: They may also feed on worms, jellyfish, and other invertebrates.

Reproduction

Orectolobiformes are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. The eggs are typically encased in a tough, leathery capsule. Some species deposit their eggs in a nest, while others attach them to seaweed or rocks. The incubation period for Orectolobiformes eggs varies depending on the species, but it can range from several months to a year.

References

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