From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Scapanorhynchus |
| Type |
shark |
| Length |
1 ft 8 in (50 cm) |
| Movement |
swimming |
| Age |
125-65 million years ago |
| Diet |
carnivore |
| Environment |
ocean |
| Distribution |
worldwide |
Scapanorhynchus ("Spade Snout") is an extinct genus of shark from the Cretaceous era. Their extreme similarities to the living goblin shark, Mitsukurina owstoni, lead some experts to consider reclassifying it as Scapanorhynchus owstoni. However, most shark specialists regard the goblin shark to be distinct enough from its prehistoric relatives to merit placement in its own genus.
Scapanorhynchus had an elongated, albiet, flattened snout, and sharp awl-shaped teeth, ideal for seizing fish, or tearing chunks of flesh from its prey.
