Fin's Fish Guide
The Pacific guitarfish (Pseudobatos planiceps) is a saltwater fish of the family Rhinobatidae that grows up to 114 cm.
Description
The Pacific guitarfish is a guitarfish (Rhinobatidae) from coastal waters of the eastern Pacific, off Central and South America. The species grows to about 1.1 metres and has a flattened, guitar-shaped forebody that merges into a powerful, shark-like tail, with a sandy back. Unlike stingrays it has no venomous spine. As a bottom-dweller it searches sand and mud bottoms for crustaceans, molluscs and worms. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pacific guitarfish?
The Pacific guitarfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Pacific guitarfish live?
The Pacific guitarfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Chile, Ecuador, Galapagos Is., Nicaragua, Peru
How big does the Pacific guitarfish get?
The Pacific guitarfish grows to a maximum of about 114 cm.
Is the Pacific guitarfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pacific guitarfish 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 Pacific guitarfish edible?
Yes, the Pacific guitarfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudobatos
More from the family Rhinobatidae
Want the complete picture on the Pacific guitarfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pacific guitarfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.