Rhina ancylostomus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The bowmouth guitarfish faces severe population declines primarily due to intensive fishing pressure across its Indo-Pacific range, where it is targeted for its valuable fins and meat. Coastal development and habitat degradation have reduced critical nursery areas in shallow waters. The species' slow reproductive rate and late maturity make populations extremely vulnerable to overexploitation, with some regional populations experiencing declines exceeding 80% over recent decades.
Habitat
Rhina ancylostomus inhabits shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and sandy or muddy bottoms from the intertidal zone to depths of approximately 90 meters. The species relies on mangrove areas and seagrass beds as critical nursery habitats for juveniles.
