Palaeocarcharias was a small genus of shark from Europe, specifically Germany and France, during the Middle Jurassic period. It is known from exceptionally well-preserved fossils and the genus contains a single species, P. stromeri.
Description[]
Palaeocarcharias was a small shark around one meter (3.3 feet) in in length. Its appearance very closely resembled that of modern wobbegongs, having a flat body, wide pectoral and pelvic fins, and proportionately tall dorsal fins. Like today's wobbegongs, it likely led a primarily benthic lifestyle, lying on the sea floor and ambushing small fish and invertebrates.
Classification[]
Despite its similar appearance to Orectolobiformes (carpet sharks), Palaeocarcharias is believed to have been a very early ancestor of Lamniformes (mackerel sharks). Its teeth were a similar shape and had cusps akin to those of some modern mackerel sharks. Whether this is an accurate classification has been debated, with it being considered part of its own lineage (Palaeocarchariformes) or a basal orectolobiform with specialized teeth most similar to modern lamniforms. A 2023 study seems to favor its placement within Lamniformes.