Scientific Name
Rhina ancylostomus
Other Common Name(s)
Mud Skate, Shark Ray, Sharkfin Guitarfish
Body Weight
Up to 135 kg
Body Length
Up to 3 m
Habitat
Diet
Fun Facts
The bowmouth guitarfish is so called because of its distinctive body shape. Although its large dorsal fins and strong tail make it look like a shark, it is in fact a type of rays.
The bowmouth guitarfish are found near sandy or muddy seabed. It locates its prey by smell, and with its broad head and pectoral fins, presses its prey against the seabed. It then swallows it with its mouth, which is on the underside of its body.
Distribution
Threats & Conservation
Threats & Conservation
Overexploitation of Biological Resources
Bowmouth guitarfish are under threat because they are often caught by fisheries in Southeast Asia, either targeted or as bycatch. Both their flesh and fins are eaten. With a late sexual maturity and low reproductive rate, the guitarfish population is particularly vulnerable to fishing. Its habitat is also being undermined by pollution, the use of explosives in fishing and the declining condition of corals.
IUCN Red List
Critically Endangered
CITES
Appendix II
Conservation
Protected under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) in Hong Kong
The Park actively participates in the international conservation initiative "Shark Ray 360", collaborating with global aquarium experts to preserve this critically endangered species.
Sharing the Expertise of Ocean Park
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