Banjo Shark

This large shovelnose ray is distinguished by the following characters: suboval disc, short and broadly rounded snout with nostrils partly covered with a large nasal curtain; sharp thorns present on mid-line of disc and shoulders; behind interorbital space is an ornate pattern of dark-edged bands with distinct triangular or diamond-shaped marking (Ref. 114953).

Exhibit ovoviparity (aplacental viviparity), with embryos feeding initially on yolk, then receiving additional nourishment from the mother by indirect absorption of uterine fluid enriched with mucus, fat or protein through specialised structures (Ref. 50449).

A benthic species and an active scavenger which will enter fish traps and often becoming ensnared by the disc (Ref. 6871). Found also on sandy bottoms and seagrass areas, often near rocky reefs (Ref. 12951). Mainly feeds on crabs and shrimps (Ref. 114953). Ovoviviparous with golden egg capsules, each with up to 3 embryos (Ref. 12951). Produces up to 2-3 pups. Length size seldom exceeds 110 cm TL; birth size at ca. 25 cm TL (Ref. 114953). The flesh is good to eat, although only a small quantity is sold in seafood outlets (Ref. 6871).

fisheries: minor commercial; gamefish: yes; aquarium: public aquariums; price category: medium; price reliability: very questionable: based on ex-vessel price for species in this family

The eastern fiddler ray (Trygonorrhina fasciata), also called the banjo shark, fiddler ray, fiddler, green skate, magpie fiddler ray, parrit, southern fiddler ray or southern fiddler, is a species of fish in the Rhinobatidae family. It is endemic to eastern Australia. Its natural habitat is open seas.