An order of sharks comprising one family (Pristiophoridae) and two genera, commonly known as sawsharks. Sawsharks (see illustration) are superficially similar to sawfishes, which are rays, but are distinguishable from all other elasmobranchs by the following combination of characters: snout shaped as a long flat blade bearing alternate large and small teeth on each side that are weakly embedded and periodically replaced; one pair of long barbels on the underside of the blade; no visible dorsal fin spines; anal fin absent; large spiracles; and ovoviviparous, with embryos feeding solely on yolk.  See also: Elasmobranchii; Pristiformes; Selachii