Article: The Jurassic selachian fish Protospinax Woodward
Publication: Palaeontology
Volume:
19
Part:
4
Publication Date:
November
1976
Page(s):
733
–
747
Author(s):
J. G. Maisey
Abstract
Protospinax Woodward, 1919 (Kimmeridgian) is synonymous with Belemnobatis Thiolliere, 1854, and is a rhinobatoid. The paratype of P. annectans Woodward, 1919 differs fundamentally from the holotype; it is described as Squalogaleus woodwardi gen. and sp. nov. and has galeoid-like jaws which lack an otic process. Primitive rhinobatoids and squatinoids have similar pectoral fin structure and a pectoral notch, suggesting a close primitive relationship.