RHINOBATUS (GUITAR FISH)

Contents hide

1) Classification of Rhinobatus (Guitar Fish)

2) Geographical distribution

3) Habit and habitat

4) General Characteristics of Rhinobatus (Guitar Fish)

5) Economic importance

6) Special features

7) Identification

Classification of Rhinobatus (Guitar Fish)

Phylum :- Chordata (Dorsal tubular nerve cord, notochord and gill-slits present.)
Group :- Craniata (Cranium with brain present.)
Sub phylum :- Vertebrata (Vertebral column present.)
Division :- Gnathostomata (Jaws and paired appendages present.)
Super Class :- Pisces (Paired fins, gills and skin with scales.)
Class :- Chondrichthyes (=Elasmobranchii) (Endoskeleton cartilaginous. Scales usually placoid. Notochord rudimentary, Spiral valve in intestine, opercula absent)
Sub-Class :- Elasmobranchii (Sharks and rays, Gills in separate clefts, cloaca present)
Order :- Rhinopristiformes (Gills-slits ventral, Spiracles Present, Dorsal Fin on tail, if present, Vertebrae tectospondylous.)
Family :- Pristidae
Genus :- Rhinobatus

Geographical distribution

Rhinobatus has been reported from west coast of Africa, Indian Ocean, Australia, China, Atlantic and Pacific coasts of America and Galapagos. Mostly distributed in tropical and sub-tropical seas. Upper Jurassic to Recent.

Habit and habitat

It is a bottom dweller.

General Characteristics of Rhinobatus (Guitar Fish)

Commonly called as Guitar fish, due to its guitar-like shape.
Body divided into head, trunk and tail.
Sub-rhombic head tapers into a triangular snout or rostrum.
Pectoral fins greatly expanded along the head and trunk and consequently body assumes sub-rhombic shape.
Entire back contains a median row of minute denticles. Head and body are dorsoventrally compressed.
Head contains a pair of eyes and a pair of spiracles closely placed to eyes.
Gill-slits 5 pairs, situated ventrally.
Tail is elongated with a caudal fin and a longitudinal fold of skin on each side.
Paired pelvic fins near pectoral fins. First and second dorsal fins near tail region.
Viviparous.

Economic importance

Guitarfish (family Rhinobatidae) are a group of cartilaginous fish with significant economic and ecological importance. Their value comes from their use in fisheries, trade, and their role in marine ecosystems. Below are the key points regarding their economic importance:

Fisheries and Trade Meat:
- Meat: Guitarfish are caught for their meat, which is consumed in many coastal communities, especially in parts of Asia and Africa. Their meat is often marketed as a cheaper alternative to more expensive fish species.
- Fins: Their fins are highly valued in the global shark fin trade, particularly for making dishes like shark fin soup. This contributes significantly to their economic exploitation.
- Byproducts: Guitarfish skin and cartilage may also be processed for use in certain industrial products or as raw materials for gelatin.
Ecotourism
- Recreational Diving and Snorkeling: Guitarfish, with their distinctive appearance, attract attention in ecotourism industries, particularly in regions promoting sustainable marine tourism. Tourists enjoy observing them in coral reef ecosystems and sandy seabeds.
- Awareness Campaigns: The inclusion of guitarfish in conservation-focused tourism programs helps create revenue while educating the public about marine biodiversity.
Cultural Significance
- In certain regions, guitarfish are part of traditional fishing practices or local folklore, adding a cultural dimension to their economic role.
Conservation and Research
- Overfishing and habitat degradation pose significant threats to guitarfish populations. They are classified as vulnerable or endangered in many areas due to heavy fishing pressure, especially for their fins.
- To ensure sustainable economic benefits, conservation measures like marine protected areas, restrictions on overfishing, and community-based management are critical. Promoting guitarfish through ecotourism and conservation initiatives can also provide alternative livelihoods while preserving their populations.

Scientific and Educational Value

Guitarfish are of interest to researchers studying cartilaginous fish, contributing to advancements in marine biology, ecology, and conservation. Investments in research programs can generate funding and support for local communities.

Special features

The fish exists from Upper Jurassic. The complete skeleton of Rhinobatus has been obtained from lithographic stone of Bavaria. Upper Cretaceous of Mount Lebanon and Upper Eocene of Monte Bo1ca. Body intermediate between shark like and skate like.