Fin's Fish Guide
The Cowhead eagle ray (Myliobatis tobijei) is a saltwater fish of the family Myliobatidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Description
The cowhead eagle ray is an eagle ray (Myliobatidae) from coastal waters of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 1 metre wide and has a rhomboid body with broad, wing-like pectoral fins, a projecting, cow-like head and a long, whip-like tail with one or more serrated venomous spines. With flat crushing plates it crushes molluscs and crustaceans from sandy bottoms. It is not aggressive, but the tail spine can inflict a painful, venomous wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cowhead eagle ray?
The Cowhead eagle ray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Wing-like pectoral fins and a whip tail with a venomous spine
Where does the Cowhead eagle ray live?
The Cowhead eagle ray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northwest Pacific
How big does the Cowhead eagle ray get?
The Cowhead eagle ray grows to a maximum of about 150 cm.
Is the Cowhead eagle ray dangerous to humans?
The Cowhead eagle ray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Do not step on the tail or grab the fish by the tail. For a sting: immediately immerse the wound in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C, not scalding) for 30-90 minutes to break down the protein venom; have any retained spine fragments removed. Pain is severe: always seek medical help and check tetanus status.
Is the Cowhead eagle ray edible?
The Cowhead eagle ray is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Myliobatis
More from the family Myliobatidae
Want the complete picture on the Cowhead eagle ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cowhead eagle ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.