Tremoriformes

Tremoriformes is a proposed superorder of teleost fishes. The group is characterized by a series of unique skeletal and muscular features, particularly in the head and pectoral girdle. Historically, the placement of Tremoriformes within teleost phylogeny has been debated, with various studies proposing different relationships to other fish groups.

Early research often placed Tremoriformes within the acanthomorphs, a large and diverse clade of ray-finned fishes. However, more recent molecular and morphological analyses have suggested a broader interpretation, potentially linking them to more basal groups of teleosts. The precise phylogenetic position remains an active area of research.

Key anatomical characteristics that define Tremoriformes include modifications to the jaw suspension and the structure of the pectoral fins. These adaptations are thought to be related to specific feeding strategies or locomotory behaviors, though detailed functional studies are limited for many taxa within the group.

The fossil record of Tremoriformes is not extensive, but finds have contributed to understanding their evolutionary history. The group encompasses a variety of extant fish families, though the exact composition and definition of Tremoriformes can vary between different taxonomic treatments. Further research is needed to clarify the relationships and evolutionary pathways of this fascinating assemblage of fishes.