Mawsoniidae [Mawsoniidae]

Description

Mawsoniidae is a family of extinct coelacanths that lived from the Late Triassic to the Late Cretaceous period. This family includes large marine and freshwater fish, some of which reached lengths of more than three meters, making them among the largest coelacanths known. Mawsoniidae species had elongated bodies, with distinctive lobed pectoral and pelvic fins similar to those of their modern relatives, the Latimeriidae. They possessed a unique cranial structure with a slightly hinged skull, which allowed for a wide gape, and were likely slow-moving, ambush predators. Mawsoniidae fossils have been found in various locations around the world, indicating a wide distribution during their time. Their discovery has provided significant insights into the evolutionary history and diversity of coelacanths.

Genera

Taxonomy