The Carcharodons, also called the Space Sharks, are a loyalist Space Marine chapter known for extreme brutality and a mysterious past. They roam the void beyond the Imperium, hunting threats in the name of a forgotten duty.
Who are the Carcharodons?
The Carcharodons, or Carcharodon Astra in High Gothic, are a fleet-based Space Marine chapter with a reputation for ruthless efficiency. They operate beyond the Imperium’s borders, seeking out and destroying enemies of Mankind.
They came to wider attention during the Badab War, where their savage tactics and grim demeanor earned them a dark legend. Their chapter master is Tyberos the Red Wake, a terrifying figure even among Space Marines.
- Also known as: Space Sharks, Carcharodon Astra
- Chapter Master: Tyberos the Red Wake
- Homeworld: Fleet-based (officially Ootheca since 912.M41)
- Colours: Dark grey with black shoulder inset
- Specialty: Assault, close combat
Origins and gene-seed
The Carcharodons’ true origins are shrouded in myth. They might descend from Raven Guard exiles, but some evidence points to a chimeric gene-seed, possibly mixed with World Eaters. The Ashen Claws, a renegade Raven Guard successor, call them ‘mongrels’ and ‘traitor-born’, hinting at a troubled heritage.
Their history speaks of a ‘Day of Exile’, when they were banished beyond the galaxy’s edge by a figure known as the Forgotten One. They revere both the Forgotten One and the Void Father, and their chapter titles like Shade Lord and Pale Nomad echo ancient Raven Guard traditions.
Tactics and organisation
The Carcharodons excel in close-quarters assault, often deploying in boarding actions and planetary assaults where they can unleash their savage nature. They’re known for their brutal efficiency and lack of mercy.
Their organisation follows the Codex Astartes loosely, but with unique titles and a grim culture. They’re a fleet-based chapter, meaning they don’t have a fixed homeworld and instead roam the stars aboard their ships.
Notable elements and relics
The Carcharodons possess several unique relics and characters. Their Chief Librarian is called the Pale Nomad, and they have a relic chainaxe called Reaper. Notable vessels include the Nicor, and they’ve been involved in events like the Pentarchy of Blood and the Canticle of Cassandria Lev.
- Tyberos the Red Wake: Chapter Master
- Levitus Vex: Notable member
- Ma-tahe: Notable member
- Nicor: Notable vessel
- Reaper: Chainaxe relic
- Void Glass: Relic
Key facts
- The Carcharodons are a loyalist Space Marine chapter, also known as the Space Sharks.
- They’re fleet-based and specialize in assault and close combat.
- Their origins are mysterious, possibly linked to Raven Guard exiles or chimeric gene-seed.
- They gained infamy during the Badab War for their ruthlessness.
- Their Chapter Master is Tyberos the Red Wake.
- They revere the Forgotten One and the Void Father, and follow ancient titles like Shade Lord.
FAQ
Are the Carcharodons loyalists?
Yes, they’re a loyalist Space Marine chapter, though their methods are brutal and their origins questionable. They fight for the Imperium, but on their own terms.
What is the Day of Exile?
It’s a event in Carcharodons history when they were banished from their homeworld and sent beyond the galaxy’s edge by the Forgotten One. This shaped their eternal duty to patrol the void.
Who is Tyberos the Red Wake?
He’s the Chapter Master of the Carcharodons, a fearsome warrior known for his size and brutality. He leads the chapter in its grim mission.