The Eastern Fiddler Ray, Banjo Shark, scientifically known as Trygonorrhina fasciata, is a fascinating species of ray found in the marine ecosystems of the Indo-Pacific region.
Description & Characteristics
The Trygonorrhina fasciata is a distinctive ray with a flattened, disc-shaped body, reminiscent of a banjo. Its characteristic “fiddle” shape comes from its elongated snout and wide, rounded pectoral fins. The dorsal surface is covered in small, granular scales and features a striking pattern of dark brown bands across a light brown background. The ventral side is typically white. This species can grow up to 120.0 cm in length, making it a sizable inhabitant of its chosen habitats.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Eastern Fiddler Ray, Banjo Shark, Trygonorrhina fasciata, is a bottom-dwelling species commonly found in Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, deep zone of the oceans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. neritic. These areas provide the necessary substrate for the ray’s burrowing behavior. They are often observed residing on sandy or muddy bottoms, where they blend effectively with their surroundings.
Taxonomy
The Eastern Fiddler Ray, Banjo Shark, Trygonorrhina fasciata, is classified under the Class: Elasmobranchii, which encompasses all cartilaginous fish, including sharks and rays. Within this class, it belongs to the Order: Rhinopristiformes, an order comprising guitarfish and fiddler rays. The family: Trygonorrhinidae, further categorizes this species, containing a group of rays distinguished by their banjo-shaped bodies and elongated snouts.
Feeding
The Trygonorrhina fasciata is a carnivorous species, primarily feeding on a diet of bottom-dwelling invertebrates. Its diet typically consists of a variety of organisms including clams, crabs, crustaceans, edible crab, fish (little fishes), rock shrimps, schrimps, and snails. This species uses its sensitive snout to locate prey buried in the substrate, efficiently using its powerful jaws and flattened teeth to crush its food.
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