Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant shovelnose ray (Glaucostegus typus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Rhinobatidae that grows up to 270 cm.
Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea and others
Description
The giant shovelnose ray is a large guitarfish (Glaucostegidae) from coastal and brackish water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 2.7 metres and has a flattened, elongate forebody with a pointed, translucent snout that merges into a powerful, shark-like tail. Unlike stingrays it has no venomous spine. As a bottom-dweller it searches sand and mud bottoms for molluscs, crustaceans and small fish. Through overfishing the species is critically endangered, but it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant shovelnose ray?
The Giant shovelnose ray has an irregular in shape body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Giant shovelnose ray live?
The Giant shovelnose ray lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea and others
How big does the Giant shovelnose ray get?
The Giant shovelnose ray grows to a maximum of about 270 cm.
Is the Giant shovelnose ray dangerous to humans?
No, the Giant shovelnose ray is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Giant shovelnose ray edible?
Yes, the Giant shovelnose ray is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Glaucostegus
More from the family Rhinobatidae
Want the complete picture on the Giant shovelnose ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant shovelnose ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.