Zanobatus
Zanobatus is a genus of skates in the family Rhinobatidae. These are cartilaginous fish characterized by their flattened bodies, pectoral fins that extend forward to the head, and a short, blunt snout. Zanobatus skates are found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the western Atlantic Ocean and the eastern Pacific Ocean.
Common Names
Zanobatus skates are commonly known as "shovelnose rays" due to their distinctive shovel-shaped snouts. Other common names include "shovelnose skates," "shovel-nosed skates," and "snoutnose rays."
Characteristics
Zanobatus skates possess several distinctive features that set them apart from other skates. Their most notable characteristic is their flattened, disk-shaped bodies. They have large, wing-like pectoral fins that extend forward to the head, forming a continuous disc with the body. Their snouts are short and blunt, resembling a shovel. Zanobatus skates also have small, pointed mouths, with teeth that are adapted for crushing and grinding prey.
Environments
Zanobatus skates inhabit a variety of habitats, primarily on sandy or muddy bottoms in coastal waters. They are typically found at depths ranging from 10 to 100 meters. Zanobatus skates are often associated with reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky areas.