Tarmogidae

Tarmogidae is a family of extinct cartilaginous fishes belonging to the order Orectolobiformes, commonly known as carpet sharks. These ancient sharks are known from fossil remains, primarily teeth and dermal denticles, discovered in various geological formations around the world. The fossil record suggests that Tarmogidae was present during the Cretaceous period.

The teeth of Tarmogidae are typically small and serrated, indicative of a diet likely consisting of small invertebrates and possibly fish. The classification of Tarmogidae within Orectolobiformes is based on shared anatomical characteristics inferred from their fossilized remains, although direct comparisons with modern species are limited due to the scarcity of exceptionally preserved fossils.

The ecological role of Tarmogidae in Cretaceous marine environments is not fully understood. However, their presence alongside other shark species and marine fauna provides insights into the biodiversity of ancient oceans. Research into Tarmogidae continues to shed light on the evolutionary history of carpet sharks and the broader patterns of marine vertebrate evolution during the Mesozoic Era.