Scientists believe that this type of predator evolved to crush prey with a shell.
Scientists in Australia have discovered a new species of shark with human-like molars. This is reported by Live Science.
Experts have named the new species of painted horned shark (Heterodontus marshallae), which is part of the order Heterodontiformes. The order of sharks is classified by their unique body shape, small horns and protruding eyes.
According to research, this shark species is only found in the waters of northwestern Australia at a depth of approximately 125-229 meters below the surface. However, the teeth of these predators seem to be the most surprising, because they are located in several rows in a very large jaw in relation to the skull, which allows them to eat creatures such as mollusks and crustaceans.
Scientists note that this group of predators evolved to crush shelled prey with their molars.
In November 2022, researchers captured an adult male H. Marshallae, which is about 53 centimeters long, and compared to other Australian horn sharks, the species has a unique striped pattern which makes it look like a zebra shark. However, H. zebra is found in shallow waters and is often found near Indonesia or Japan, while H. marshallae prefers deeper oceans.
Scientists noted that during the study they studied six samples and an egg shell of the same species, and later they found a living male.
Researchers last described the Heterodontiformes shark species in 2005. So far, they doubt they will ever find more of these predators.
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It was previously reported that scientists from Australia solved the mystery of the egg left in the museum and identified a new species of shark.
Source: korrespondent
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