Elasmobranch diversity

Sobhana, K S (2024) Elasmobranch diversity. In: Training Manual on "Know Your Marine Biodiversity and Environment (MarBiE 1)". CMFRI Training Manual Series (42). ICAR- Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, pp. 73-86.

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Abstract

The cartilaginous fish, comprising sharks, rays, skates, guitar fishes and chimaeras have captured the imagination of scientists and enthusiasts alike. From the majestic great white shark to the graceful manta ray, each species contributes to the rich tapestry of marine biodiversity, making elasmobranchs a captivating subject of study and conservation.Elasmobranchs are a subclass under the class Chondrichthyes, which differ from bony fishes (Osteichthyes) in having a cartilaginous skeleton instead of calcified bones. Chondrichthyes is an evolutionary old taxon with the earliest ancestors appearing in the Devonian period about 400million years ago. Chondrichthyes comprises subclass Elasmobranchii (sharks, rays, skates and guitarfishes) and subclass Holocephali (Chimaeras). Elasmobranchs inhabit diverse marine environments worldwide, from shallow coastal waters to deep oceanic trenches, totaling over 869 extant species, including about 400 sharks and the remaining being skates, rays and guitarfishes.

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