Orectolobidae
Quick Summary
The family Orectolobidae, commonly known as carpet sharks, comprises wobbegongs. These sharks are bottom-dwelling and primarily inhabit the shallow waters of the tropical western Pacific Ocean.12
Key characteristics of Orectolobidae include:
* Appearance: They have flattened bodies with intricate, mottled patterns on their skin, broad heads, and long barbels near their nostrils.12
* Fins: They possess two dorsal fins without spines.32
* Teeth: Their small teeth often have multiple cusps.2
Wobbegongs are known for their camouflage, allowing them to lie motionless on the seabed while waiting for prey. The whale shark, while classified within the order Orectolobiformes (which includes carpet sharks), belongs to a different family, Rhincodontidae.34
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