Fin's Fish Guide
The Australian cownose ray (Rhinoptera neglecta) is a saltwater fish of the family Myliobatidae that grows up to 86 cm.
Description
The Australian cownose ray is an eagle ray (Rhinopteridae) from coastal waters of tropical Australia. The species grows to about 85 cm wide and has a flattened, diamond-shaped, brown body with pointed pectoral wings, an indented, cow-nosed snout and a long whip tail with one or more venomous spines at its base. As an active swimmer it travels in schools over sand and mud bottoms and crushes molluscs and crustaceans. The tail spine can give a painful sting wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Australian cownose ray?
The Australian cownose ray has an irregular in shape body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Australian cownose ray live?
The Australian cownose ray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Australian cownose ray get?
The Australian cownose ray grows to a maximum of about 86 cm.
Is the Australian cownose ray dangerous to humans?
The Australian cownose ray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from the tail spine: rinse the wound with seawater, apply pressure to limit bleeding and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C). The wound is often deep and may contain spine fragments; seek medical care, have the wound cleaned and check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rhinoptera
More from the family Myliobatidae
Want the complete picture on the Australian cownose ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian cownose ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.