Habitat Availability, Jurassic and Cretaceous Origins of the Deep-Bodied Shark Morphotype and the Rise of Pelagic Sharks

★

☆

SHARE

Overview

Paper Summary

Conflicts of Interest

Identified Weaknesses

Rating Explanation

Good to know

Topic Hierarchy

File Information

Paper Summary

Paperzilla title

Shark Body Shape Evolution: From Bottom-Dwellers to Speed Demons of the Deep

This study uses phylogenetic analysis and fossil data to trace the evolution of shark body shape, finding three distinct morphotypes and linking the rise of the pelagic (deep-bodied) form to increased habitat availability during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.

Possible Conflicts of Interest

None identified

Identified Weaknesses

Reliance on Illustrations

The study uses illustrations rather than direct measurements from specimens, potentially oversimplifying body form variations within species.

Simplified Macroevolutionary Model

The study uses a standard Mk model, which may not capture the complexities of trait evolution and adaptation as effectively as more nuanced models.

Phylogenetic Uncertainty

The analysis relies on a polytomy-resolved phylogeny, which introduces limitations due to uncertainties in the evolutionary relationships between certain shark groups.

Rating Explanation

This study provides valuable insights into shark evolution by combining phylogenetic analysis with environmental data. While some methodological limitations exist, the findings are robust and contribute significantly to our understanding of the interplay between morphology, ecology, and environmental change in deep time.

Good to know

This is our free standard analysis. Paperzilla Pro fact-checks every citation, researches author backgrounds and funding sources, and uses advanced AI reasoning for more thorough insights.

Explore Pro →