Story perspectives

Spotted Ratfish's Unique Forehead Teeth Challenge Evolutionary Theories

9/12/2025

28 5

Summary

Story summary

Researchers found that the spotted ratfish has unique teeth on its forehead, called the tenaculum, which are used for mating.
This is the first documented case of teeth existing outside the jaw, challenging previous evolutionary theories.
The tenaculum may have evolved from a defensive or display structure.
Ratfish also have pelvic claspers with tooth-like structures, but these are not true teeth.
The study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences emphasizes the evolutionary importance of these findings.

1 of 1

Story summary

Researchers found that the spotted ratfish has unique teeth on its forehead, called the tenaculum, which are used for mating.
This is the first documented case of teeth existing outside the jaw, challenging previous evolutionary theories.
The tenaculum may have evolved from a defensive or display structure.
Ratfish also have pelvic claspers with tooth-like structures, but these are not true teeth.
The study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences emphasizes the evolutionary importance of these findings.