Fin's Fish Guide
The Brazilian cownose ray (Rhinoptera brasiliensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Myliobatidae that grows up to 104 cm.
Description
The Brazilian cownose ray is a large ray from the western Atlantic, off the coast of South America. The species grows to about 100 cm across and has a flat, rhomboid body disc, an indented, cow-nose-like snout and a long tail with a venomous spine. It often schools in large numbers through shallow coastal and estuarine water and uses its pectoral fins to search for molluscs and crustaceans, which it crushes with flat jaws. The venomous spine can inflict a painful wound. Owing to fishing the IUCN assesses it as Endangered (EN).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brazilian cownose ray?
The Brazilian cownose ray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Cownose-like snout and a venomous spine on the tail; schooling cownose ray
Where does the Brazilian cownose ray live?
The Brazilian cownose ray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic
How big does the Brazilian cownose ray get?
The Brazilian cownose ray grows to a maximum of about 104 cm. On average the species is around 90 cm.
Is the Brazilian cownose ray dangerous to humans?
The Brazilian cownose ray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If stung by the tail spine: immerse the wound immediately in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove visible spine fragments, and seek medical help.
Is the Brazilian cownose ray edible?
The Brazilian cownose ray is rarely eaten.
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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 Brazilian cownose ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brazilian cownose ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.