Research news on carpet sharks (order)

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.