Get to Know the Ratfish and the Forehead Teeth It Uses During Sex

The article discusses the unique mating behavior of the ratfish, also known as chimaeras or ghost sharks. Researchers have studied how these sea creatures evolved to have one of the most peculiar anatomical features - forehead teeth used during sex. The ratfish is a cartilaginous fish that belongs to the order Chimaeriformes. Unlike other fish, male ratfish possess a retractable sexual organ on their forehead, which they use to clasp the female during mating. This specialized structure is equipped with teeth, enabling the male to grip the female firmly. The study suggests that this unusual adaptation emerged as a result of evolutionary pressures, potentially to enhance reproductive success. The forehead teeth allow the male to maintain a secure hold on the female during the mating process, which can be challenging in the underwater environment. The article highlights the remarkable diversity of life in the ocean and the fascinating insights that scientific research can provide into the complex and often surprising mechanisms of evolution.