The Southern Banded Guitarfish, Zapteryx xyster, is a fascinating and unique species of ray found in the waters of the southwestern Atlantic Ocean. With its distinctive appearance and intriguing lifestyle, it stands out as a captivating member of the marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
The Southern Banded Guitarfish, Zapteryx xyster, is easily recognizable by its flattened, guitar-shaped body, which can reach a maximum size of 78.0 cm. Its body is covered in a series of distinctive bands, giving it its common name. The dorsal surface of the fish is a mottled brown, while the ventral surface is typically a pale white or cream. Its large pectoral fins are fused to its head, giving it a broad, wing-like appearance. The Zapteryx xyster has a short, pointed snout and small, beady eyes. They possess a pair of prominent spiracles located just behind the eyes, which allow them to breathe even when buried in the sand.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Southern Banded Guitarfish, Zapteryx xyster, is a demersal species, meaning it prefers to live on or near the bottom of the ocean. They are commonly found in shallow coastal waters, particularly in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms. The Zapteryx xyster is distributed along the southwestern Atlantic coast, from southern Brazil to Uruguay. It is typically found in depths ranging from 15 to 100 meters, but can occasionally be observed in shallower waters. The Southern Banded Guitarfish primarily inhabits the Neritic Zone, a marine environment extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The Southern Banded Guitarfish, Zapteryx xyster, is classified within the Class Elasmobranchii, Order Rhinopristiformes, and Family Trygonorrhinidae. This places it within the same taxonomic group as other guitarfish and rays, sharing common characteristics and evolutionary history. Its classification highlights the unique and diverse nature of this fascinating group of fishes.
Feeding
The Southern Banded Guitarfish, Zapteryx xyster, is a carnivore and primarily feeds on invertebrates found on the ocean floor. Their diet consists primarily of clam meat, snails, and worms. They use their specialized rostral organ, a sensory appendage located on their snout, to locate prey buried in the sand. Once prey is located, the Zapteryx xyster uses its powerful jaws and sharp teeth to crush and consume its meal.
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