Rhina
Rhina is a genus of rays belonging to the family Rhinidae, commonly known as the “guitarfish.” These elasmobranchs are characterized by their flattened, guitar-shaped bodies with long, pointed snouts. They are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, inhabiting both coastal and deeper offshore environments.
Common Names
Common names for members of the genus Rhina include:
- Guitarfish
- Shovelnose ray
- Fiddler ray
Characteristics
Rhina species possess several distinctive characteristics:
- Body Shape: Flattened, guitar-shaped bodies with a long, pointed snout.
- Size: Can reach lengths of up to 2.7 meters (9 feet).
- Dorsal Fins: Two dorsal fins positioned far back on the body.
- Gill Slits: Five gill slits located on the ventral side of the body.
- Mouth: Located on the ventral side of the head, surrounded by numerous small teeth.
- Coloration: Typically brown or gray with darker markings.
Environment
Rhina species are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. They are typically found in coastal areas with sandy or muddy bottoms, as well as deeper offshore environments. Guitarfish are often found in shallow waters near coral reefs, estuaries, and bays.
Diet
Guitarfish are carnivorous, feeding primarily on crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. They use their long snouts to probe the seabed for prey, and their flattened bodies allow them to maneuver easily through sand and mud.
Reproduction
Rhina species are ovoviviparous, meaning that the embryos develop within eggs inside the mother's body. The females give birth to live young, which are typically 40-50 cm (16-20 inches) long at birth.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of Rhina species varies depending on the specific species. Some species, such as the common guitarfish (Rhina ancylostoma), are considered to be "Least Concern" by the IUCN Red List, while others, such as the Australian guitarfish (Rhina australis), are classified as "Endangered."