10 Surprising Animal Pairs You Didn’t Realize Are Close Relatives

5. Sharks and Rays: Cartilaginous Cousins

Sharks and rays, with their sleek bodies and cartilaginous skeletons, are members of the class Chondrichthyes, a group that has thrived in Earth's oceans for over 400 million years. These ancient relatives share a common ancestor that predates the dinosaurs, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of their lineage. Despite their shared ancestry, sharks and rays have evolved distinct forms and behaviors, from the powerful predatory instincts of the great white shark to the graceful gliding of manta rays. Their differences underscore the diversity within the cartilaginous fish, showcasing the varied evolutionary paths that can arise from a single lineage. This kinship is a testament to the enduring success of these ancient creatures, whose adaptations have allowed them to thrive in the ever-changing marine environment.