Pristiophoridae

Pristiophoridae, commonly known as sawsharks, is a family of cartilaginous fishes in the order Pristiophoriformes. They are distinguished by an elongated, flattened rostrum edged with tooth-like denticles on both sides, forming a saw-like blade. The rostrum is used to slash at prey and to sense them with electroreceptors and mechanoreceptors. The jaws carry sharp teeth, and the body resembles that of other sharks, with two dorsal fins and a slender tail. Most species are viviparous, giving birth to live young.

Taxonomy and diversity: The family comprises two living genera, Pristiophorus and Pliotrema, with several described species distributed across tropical and temperate seas. The fossil record of Pristiophoridae extends back to the Cretaceous, indicating an ancient lineage.

Distribution and habitat: Sawsharks occur worldwide in temperate and tropical oceans. They inhabit the continental shelf and upper slope, typically on sandy or muddy bottoms, and are often found near reefs, canyons, or submarine features. They range from shallow coastal waters to several hundred meters deep, depending on the species.

Ecology and behavior: Sawsharks are benthic predators feeding on small fishes, crustaceans, and cephalopods. They use their rostrum to stun prey and to probe crevices, aided by sensitive electroreceptors. They are generally inconspicuous and nocturnal.

Conservation: Several species are affected by commercial fisheries as bycatch and by habitat degradation. IUCN assessments range from Near Threatened to Data Deficient, with population trends often unclear due to data limitations.