by Amica Limosani, Jake New, Barbara Wueringer
The Rhinopristiformes are an Order of elasmobranchs that comprise shark–like rays. They can be identified by their flattened, either disc– or diamond–shaped heads and shark–like bodies. Common names of this order include guitarfish, sawfish, and shovelnose rays. Rhinopristiformes inhabit warm, shallow waters, making them particularly susceptible to being caught in fishing gear. Unfortunately, global shark–like ray populations are declining due to the combined effect of bycatch in fisheries and targeted fishing for their large fins on the black market. These unique animals need conservation advocacy to restore their populations to healthy levels. SARA’s long-term research and advocacy on sawfish have informed various fisheries’ legislations, leading to increased populations!
Bottlenose Wedgefish, Rhynchobatus australiae
Get to know the Bottlenose Wedgefish (Rhynchobatus australiae). With their unique wedge-shaped bodies and elongated snouts, these rays are true ocean wonders. Found in shallow coastal waters and coral reefs across the Indo-Pacific, they expertly blend into sandy or muddy substrates as they hunt for prey. Sadly, these fascinating creatures are critically endangered due to overfishing and habitat degradation, making conservation efforts vital (learn more about it by reading a paper by Kyne, 2020).
Eyebrow Wedgefish, Rhynchobatus palpebratus
Ever heard of a shark with eyebrows? Meet the Rhynchobatus palpebratus also known as the Eyebrow Wedgefish. Named for the prominent ridges above their eyes that resemble eyebrows, these unique creatures grace shallow coastal waters and muddy estuaries. With their distinctive wedge-shaped bodies, broad flattened heads, and elongated pectoral fins, they’re a fascinating sight to behold. Sadly, like many wedgefish species, eyebrow wedgefish are threatened by overfishing and habitat destruction, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts. Find out more about the conservation status on the IUCN page.
Green Sawfish, Pristis zijsron
Ever seen a green giant with a built-in saw? Meet the Green Sawfish, Pristis zijsron. These unique creatures, one of the largest sawfish species, have a long, narrow rostrum and olive-green color. They live in shallow coastal waters and estuaries, often near mangrove forests in tropical and subtropical regions. Using their rostrum like a sword, they skillfully slash back and forth to capture fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Sadly, these sawfish are critically endangered due to overfishing and habitat loss.
Freshwater Sawfish, Pristis pristis
Meet the Freshwater Sawfish, Pristis pristis, also known as the largetooth sawfish. These creatures are among the largest species of sawfish, boasting long, flat rostrums lined with sharp teeth-like structures. They thrive in freshwater and brackish habitats like rivers, estuaries, and coastal lagoons, yet they’re also known to venture into saltwater environments. They journey between freshwater and marine domains for breeding and feeding. Sadly, their populations have plummeted due to overfishing, habitat loss, and bycatch, rendering them critically endangered.
Dwarf Sawfish, Pristis clavata
The Dwarf Sawfish, Pristis clavata, is called dwarfs as saw is smallest in relation to body size. Despite their saws being the smallest in the Pristis family, they can still reach lengths of up to 3.1 meters and live for over 50 years. Did you know that the “teeth” on their saw are specialized dermal denticles? These sawfish use their saws to detect, stun, and capture prey with incredible precision. Keep an eye out for the gill slits on the underside of their bodies, a distinctive feature of these fascinating creatures
Narrow Sawfish, Anoxypristis cuspidata
We all recognise this ray, the narrow sawfish (Anoxypristis cuspidata). As the most abundant species of sawfish in Queensland and the only one in its genus, it stands out distinctly. This remarkable species has five canals in its rostrum, compared to the three in the freshwater sawfish. Found in tropical and subtropical coastal waters, these sawfish explore mangrove estuaries, rivers, and shallow bays. When hunting, they are masters, using their rostrum to stun and capture small fish and crustaceans. They are also known to feed on squid! However, these incredible creatures are critically endangered due to overfishing and habitat degradation. They need our help now more than ever.
Giant Shovelnose Ray, Glaucostegus typus
Meet the remarkable Giant Shovelnose Ray, Glaucostegus typus. With their distinctive shovel-shaped snouts, these rays are sand-sifting experts, constantly searching for prey in coastal waters near coral reefs and estuaries. Their striking coloration of dark upper bodies and white undersides provides excellent camouflage against the sandy seafloor. As nocturnal predators, they navigate the depths under the cloak of darkness, making every encounter with these ocean giants an unforgettable experience! Fun fact: our principal
