Rhinidae
Rhinidae is a family of rays in the order Rhiniformes. They are commonly known as guitarfish, because of their body shape, which resembles that of a guitar. The family includes 14 recognized species in three genera. Guitarfish are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide.
Characteristics
Rhinidae are characterized by their flattened bodies, with a broad, triangular head and a long, tapering tail. Their pectoral fins are large and fused to the head, forming a wing-like structure. They have two dorsal fins, the first of which is much larger than the second. They also have a small, pointed snout, and their eyes are located on the top of their head.
Guitarfish are carnivorous, feeding on invertebrates and small fish. They have a strong jaw and teeth that are adapted for crushing prey. They are generally bottom-dwelling fish, but they can also swim in mid-water.
Environments
Rhinidae inhabit a wide range of marine habitats, including:
- Coastal waters
- Estuaries
- Continental shelves
- Reefs
They can be found in both sandy and muddy bottoms, as well as in rocky areas.
Genera
The family Rhinidae includes three genera:
- Rhinobatos
- Rhynchobatus
- Trygonorhina
These genera contain a total of 14 recognized species.
Conservation Status
Many species of guitarfish are facing threats from overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. Several species are listed as threatened or endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).