Rome's wedge and the horse transports

The two consular hexaremes led the first and second squadrons in widening files with their bows pointing outwards. The third squadron formed a forward-facing line across the base of that triangle. Horse transports followed under tow behind the third squadron, with the fourth squadron forming a broad rear guard beyond them. This produced a wedge with a hollow head and a solid base, intended to protect a slower expedition against faster opponents. Carthage stretched three quarters of its fleet into a line and angled its remaining wing toward the coast. Hanno's seaward wing included fast quinqueremes for outflanking, while Hamilcar directed the centre's response.