Gorgona guitarfish – Pseudobatos prahli

_Pseudobatos prahli_ is a species of skate, a type of cartilaginous fish, found in the Indo-Pacific region. This skate is relatively small in size, reaching a maximum length of approximately 90.0 cm. It is a bottom-dwelling fish that prefers sandy or muddy habitats and can be found at depths ranging from the shallows to depths of over 100 meters.

Description & Characteristics

_Pseudobatos prahli_ has a distinctive flattened body shape characteristic of skates, with large pectoral fins that extend forward, giving the fish a wing-like appearance. Its snout is short and rounded, and its eyes are small and set on top of its head. The dorsal surface is typically brown or gray, often with darker spots or blotches, while the ventral surface is lighter in color. The species is known for its well-developed dentition, with rows of sharp teeth that are adapted for crushing prey.

Habitat and Occurrence

_Pseudobatos prahli_ is found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting a variety of habitats, including coastal waters, estuaries, and the continental shelf. It is known to occur in both tropical and subtropical waters, with its distribution extending from the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden in the west to the western Pacific Ocean in the east. It is considered a demersal fish, meaning it lives on or near the bottom of the ocean floor. _Pseudobatos prahli_ is a common presence in these marine zones, particularly in areas with sandy or muddy substrates.

Taxonomy

_Pseudobatos prahli_ is classified within the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Rhinopristiformes, and Family: Rhinobatidae. This family, known as the “shovelnose rays,” includes a variety of skate species that are characterized by their flattened bodies, wing-like pectoral fins, and shovel-shaped snouts. These species are found in a variety of marine environments, including shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and the continental shelf.

Feeding

_Pseudobatos prahli_ is a carnivorous fish that feeds on a variety of invertebrates and small fish. It is an opportunistic feeder, using its sharp teeth to crush and consume its prey. The diet of _Pseudobatos prahli_ is thought to include crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish, depending on the availability of prey in its specific habitat.