ballistilistes

Ballistilistes is a genus of extinct cartilaginous fishes that lived during the Carboniferous period. These ancient sharks are known primarily from fossilized teeth and, less commonly, from fin spines and dermal denticles. They belong to the extinct order Eugeneodontiformes, a group characterized by their unusual tooth whorls. However, ballistilistes themselves are distinct from the more well-known Eugeneodonts like Helicoprion, as they did not possess a similarly large, coiled tooth structure.

The teeth of ballistilistes are typically small and triangular, often exhibiting serrated edges, which suggests a predatory diet. Their body shape is inferred to have been fusiform, typical of many sharks, allowing for efficient swimming. Fossil evidence indicates they inhabited marine environments, likely shallow shelf seas. The precise phylogenetic relationships of ballistilistes within Eugeneodontiformes are still a subject of ongoing research. While their presence is documented across several continents, their overall abundance appears to have been relatively low compared to other contemporary fish groups. The genus name itself is derived from Greek words referring to "dart" and "sail," perhaps alluding to their presumed agility.