Coelacanth: Is any sarcopterygian fish of

Coelacanth is any sarcopterygian fish of the subclass Coelacanthimorpha (Actinistia) and order Coelacanthiformes, characterized by a three-lobed, diphycercal caudal fin, external nostrils, and an anterior dorsal fin in front of the center of the body (Nelson 2004). While coelacanths are well recognized in the fossil record, there are only two living species, Latimeria chalumne and Latimeria menadoensis (Nelson 2006). Why is the Coelacanth Famous? A Living Fossil From the Deep The coelacanth is famous primarily because it was thought to be extinct for millions of years, making its rediscovery a monumental event in evolutionary biology; it’s the ultimate living fossil, representing a crucial link in understanding the transition from fish to land-dwelling vertebrates. The Lazarus Taxon: Rediscovering the Coelacanth The story of the coelacanth is one of scientific surprise and wonder. For decades ... Learn about the coelacanth, a living fossil fish with unique features and two known species. Discover its anatomy, diversity, evolution, ecology and conservation status. Coelacanths are a part of Sarcopterygii or the lobe-finned fishes, the same clade as the lungfish and tetrapods, and they all possess lobed fins as opposed to rayed fins.