Fin's Fish Guide
The Lusitanian cownose ray (Rhinoptera marginata) is a saltwater fish of the family Myliobatidae that grows up to 200 cm.
Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, pelagic above sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water and the continental shelf; sometimes forms large shoals.
Description
The Lusitanian cownose ray is a large, wing-shaped ray of the family Rhinopteridae (cownose rays) reaching a wingspan of about 2 metres. The diamond-shaped body has broad, pointed pectoral fins and a strikingly indented, two-lobed head resembling a cow's muzzle. The long, whip-like tail bears a venomous spine. The species swims pelagically above sand and mud bottoms of coastal water in the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, often in large schools. With flat jaw plates it crushes shellfish, crabs and crustaceans from the bottom. It is ovoviviparous. Through heavy fishing and bycatch it has declined sharply and is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lusitanian cownose ray?
The Lusitanian cownose ray has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Large, wing-shaped ray with broad, pointed pectoral fins and an indented, cownose-like head; a long tail with a venomous spine.
Where does the Lusitanian cownose ray live?
The Lusitanian cownose ray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, pelagic above sandy and silty bottoms of coastal water and the continental shelf; sometimes forms large shoals.
How big does the Lusitanian cownose ray get?
The Lusitanian cownose ray grows to a maximum of about 200 cm.
Is the Lusitanian cownose ray dangerous to humans?
The Lusitanian cownose ray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The tail bears one or more venomous spines: a sting is very painful. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical help.
Is the Lusitanian cownose ray edible?
The Lusitanian cownose ray is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Lusitanian cownose ray and live in the same waters.
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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 Lusitanian cownose ray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lusitanian cownose ray is one of 12,519 species in the app.