Fin's Fish Guide
The Guitarfish (Aptychotrema vincentiana) is a saltwater fish of the family Rhinobatidae that grows up to 84 cm.
Description
The western shovelnose ray is a guitarfish (Rhinobatidae) endemic to western and southern Australia. The species reaches about 84 cm and has a flattened, shovel-shaped snout and a shark-like, muscular tail with two dorsal fins. It occurs near the shore and on the continental shelf, and is common on sandy beaches and seagrass beds. The diet consists mainly of decapod crustaceans and small bony fishes. The species is ovoviviparous and produces litters of up to about sixteen pups. Unlike stingrays it has no venomous spine and is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Guitarfish?
The Guitarfish has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Flattened, spade-shaped snout and a shark-like tail; harmless and ovoviviparous.
Where does the Guitarfish live?
The Guitarfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic along western and southern Australia.
How big does the Guitarfish get?
The Guitarfish grows to a maximum of about 84 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Guitarfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Guitarfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Guitarfish edible?
The Guitarfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Rhinobatidae
Want the complete picture on the Guitarfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Guitarfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.