Story perspectives

Study Reveals Separate Lineage for Ancient Shark Family

4/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

A new genetic analysis suggests Hexanchiformes form a lineage separate from other sharks, rays, and skates.
Researchers Thomas Near and Chase Brownstein of Yale University analyzed genomes of 48 chondrichthyan species.
The findings suggest Hexanchiformes, including cow and frilled sharks, have features like additional gill slits.
The study proposes a revised family tree but needs more sequencing for confirmation.
Relationships could affect evolutionary biology and conservation for these ancient predators.

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Story summary

A new genetic analysis suggests Hexanchiformes form a lineage separate from other sharks, rays, and skates.
Researchers Thomas Near and Chase Brownstein of Yale University analyzed genomes of 48 chondrichthyan species.
The findings suggest Hexanchiformes, including cow and frilled sharks, have features like additional gill slits.
The study proposes a revised family tree but needs more sequencing for confirmation.
Relationships could affect evolutionary biology and conservation for these ancient predators.