How to Identify Eastern Shovelnose Ray

To identify Eastern Shovelnose Ray (Aptychotrema rostrata), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically sandy brown to greyish, often with scattered darker spots or blotches, providing camouflage against the seabed. Ventral surface is white or cream-colored.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Elongated, pointed, shovel-like snout, Two distinct dorsal fins located far back on the tail, Large, triangular pectoral fins fused to the head, Robust, shark-like tail with a well-developed caudal fin, Small, widely spaced denticles (placoid scales) giving a smooth texture

Dorsal fin

Two relatively small, triangular dorsal fins of similar size, positioned on the posterior half of the tail, well behind the pelvic fins.

Tail fin

Well-developed, shark-like caudal fin, typically asymmetrical with a larger upper lobe.

Pectoral fin

Large, triangular, and broadly fused to the sides of the head and body, forming the characteristic 'shovel' shape.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are distinct from the pectoral fins, located anterior to the first dorsal fin. Anal fin is absent.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Snout Shape

   Look for the distinctly elongated, pointed, and shovel-like snout, which is a key identifier for this species within its range.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Observe the two dorsal fins positioned far back on the tail, a characteristic of guitarfish, and note their similar size and shape.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Note the sandy brown to greyish dorsal coloration, often with subtle darker spots, which helps it blend with the seabed.

4. 4

   Body Texture

   The skin feels relatively smooth due to small, widely spaced dermal denticles, unlike some other rays with prominent thorns.

Explore Eastern Shovelnose Ray