Carpet sharks are an order of cartilaginous fishes (Orectolobiformes) within the class Chondrichthyes, characterized by generally dorsoventrally flattened bodies, often elaborate dermal ornamentation, and subterminal mouths accompanied by prominent nasal barbels or nasoral grooves. This order includes nurse sharks, wobbegongs, whale sharks, and several smaller benthic species. They typically possess two dorsal fins without spines, small spiracles, and well-developed sensory systems adapted for demersal or filter-feeding ecologies. Reproductive modes range from oviparity to various forms of viviparity, with internal fertilization. Carpet sharks occupy primarily marine habitats from shallow coastal reefs to pelagic zones, playing important roles as meso- and apex predators or large planktivores.
As the effects of climate change intensify, it has become standard practice for major corporations to pledge their support for environmental sustainability. This is as it should be, because genuine corporate engagement is ...
Ecology
Feb 18, 2026
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A newly examined prehistoric shark from the age of dinosaurs provides surprising insights into the early evolution of modern sharks. It cannot be confidently assigned to any shark order that exists today and thus calls into ...
Evolution
Feb 17, 2026
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Artificial light from major coastal cities can disrupt the nighttime biology of sharks, according to new research that provides the first-ever measurements of melatonin—a hormone tied to biological rhythms—in wild sharks.
Plants & Animals
Feb 3, 2026
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A new study from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science shows that juvenile Atlantic nurse sharks (Ginglymostoma cirratum) grow more rapidly as juveniles and reach smaller maximum ...
Plants & Animals
Jan 28, 2026
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New research from James Cook University has made the extraordinary discovery that epaulette sharks can reproduce and lay eggs without any measurable rise in energy use.
Plants & Animals
Jan 19, 2026
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A new study led by University of South Florida biologist Lucas Griffin has found that tour boats and swimmers routinely violate Mexico's whale shark tourism rules—even when the waters are far less crowded than the law allows.
Ecology
Dec 10, 2025
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