How to Identify Giant Guitarfish

To identify Giant Guitarfish (Rhynchobatus djiddensis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

flat

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically greyish-brown to olive-green, often adorned with numerous prominent white spots, which can be arranged in rows or scattered. Ventral surface is white. Some individuals may have darker blotches or bands.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

inferior

Distinctive features

Flattened, shark-like body with a broad, pointed snout., Two prominent, widely spaced dorsal fins located far back on the body., Large, triangular pectoral fins that are distinct from the head., A series of small, thorny denticles (tubercles) along the midline of the back and around the eyes., Distinctive white spots on the dorsal surface.

Dorsal fin

Two large, triangular, and erect dorsal fins, with the first dorsal fin originating well behind the pelvic fin insertions.

Tail fin

Well-developed, shark-like caudal fin with a distinct lower lobe.

Pectoral fin

Large, triangular, and distinct from the head, not fused to the head as in true rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are relatively small and located beneath the first dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Snout Shape

   The snout is distinctly pointed and elongated, giving it a 'shovelnose' appearance.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fins

   Possesses two large, well-separated dorsal fins, a key feature distinguishing it from many true rays.

3. 3

   Coloration and Spots

   The presence of numerous, often prominent, white spots on a greyish-brown to olive-green background is highly characteristic.

4. 4

   Body Form

   Its body is intermediate between a shark and a ray, with a flattened ventral surface but a robust, shark-like tail and distinct pectoral fins.

5. 5

   Denticles

   A row of small, thorny denticles along the midline of the back and around the eyes can be felt upon careful examination.

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