The American cownose ray (Rhinoptera bonasus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Myliobatidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Description
The cownose ray (Rhinoptera bonasus) is a ray of the family Myliobatidae from the western Atlantic. The species owes its name to its cleft, cow-nose-like snout and has broad, wing-like pectoral fins with which it 'flies' gracefully through the water. It lives on the continental shelf, enters bays and estuaries and sometimes forms huge schools. The diet consists mainly of benthic invertebrates and mollusks, which it crushes with flat tooth plates, sometimes damaging seagrass beds. The tail bears a spine. Owing to overfishing and slow reproduction the species is considered Vulnerable (VU). The disc reaches about 1.2 metres across.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the American cownose ray?
The American cownose ray has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the American cownose ray live?
The American cownose ray lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the American cownose ray get?
The American cownose ray grows to a maximum of about 120 cm.
Is the American cownose ray dangerous to humans?
The American cownose ray can cause injury; handle it with care.
Is the American cownose ray edible?
The American cownose ray is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rhinoptera
More from the family Myliobatidae
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