The Southern Fiddler Ray, also known as the Banjo Shark, Dumeril’s Shovelnose-ray, Green Skate, Magpie Ray, Fiddler, Fiddler Ray, Green Skate, Paritt, Parrit, or Southern Fiddler, is a species of ray belonging to the family Trygonorrhinidae. It is scientifically classified as Trygonorrhina dumerilii and is a fascinating and often overlooked inhabitant of coastal waters.
Description & Characteristics
The Southern Fiddler Ray, Trygonorrhina dumerilii, is a unique and readily recognizable ray due to its distinct physical characteristics. It can reach a maximum size of 146.0 cm in length. The ray’s flattened, disc-shaped body is adorned with a distinctive pattern of dark brown spots and blotches, resembling a magpie, which contributes to its common name “Magpie Ray”. The ray’s snout is broad and shovel-shaped, giving it the name “Shovelnose-ray”. The mouth is located on the underside of the body, flanked by rows of sharp, pointed teeth. Their dorsal and pectoral fins are well-developed, giving them a distinctive “banjo” shape, hence the name “Banjo Shark”. The underside of the body is lighter in color and features five gill slits located behind the eyes.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Southern Fiddler Ray, Trygonorrhina dumerilii, typically inhabits the coastal waters of the southern hemisphere, with a depth range of 5.0 to 205.0 meters. They are commonly found in seagrass meadows and eelgrass meadows, where they find shelter and food. The Trygonorrhina dumerilii is a significant component of these marine ecosystems, contributing to their balance and biodiversity. The species is prevalent in both temperate and tropical waters, ranging from the eastern Indian Ocean to the western Pacific Ocean.
Taxonomy
The species Trygonorrhina dumerilii belongs to the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Rhinopristiformes, and Family: Trygonorrhinidae. This classification places it within the diverse group of cartilaginous fishes, which also includes sharks and other rays. The family Trygonorrhinidae is specifically composed of rays that exhibit a unique combination of features, including their shovel-shaped snouts and their distinctive patterns.
Feeding
The Southern Fiddler Ray, Trygonorrhina dumerilii, is a carnivorous predator that plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of its marine environment. Its diet consists primarily of a variety of benthic invertebrates, including clams, crabs, crustaceans, edible crabs, fish (little fishes), snails, and worms. It uses its sharp teeth and powerful jaws to crush and consume its prey, contributing to the health and stability of its coastal habitats.
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