Oxynotus

Oxynotus is a genus of sawsharks in the family Oxynotidae. They are small, deep-water sharks characterized by a distinctive flattened body, a broad, flat head with a prominent saw-like snout, and a series of small teeth on the snout. They also possess a short, rounded nose and a stout, robust body. Oxynotus sharks are typically found in temperate and tropical waters worldwide, inhabiting depths ranging from 300 to over 1,000 meters. They are benthic predators, feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.

There are currently five recognized species within the genus Oxynotus: Oxynotus brucus, Oxynotus centrina, Oxynotus paradoxus, Oxynotus bruni, and Oxynotus fulginosus. These species can be distinguished by variations in their fin structure, body proportions, and dentition. Oxynotus sharks are generally slow-moving and are not considered dangerous to humans. Their deep-sea habitat and small size make them rarely encountered. Their reproductive biology is not well-understood, but they are believed to be ovoviviparous, with eggs developing inside the mother. Conservation status varies among species, with some facing threats from deep-sea trawling.