Rhinoptera marginata

Size range: As described in written fish guides/FishBase.

Common size: Disk width 120-150 cm .

Max length : 200 cm

Depth range: 0-100 m

Habitat: benthopelagic

Soft - sand , silt, mud

Water column position: Lies and feed on soft bottoms often swim in open water

§ Benthic

§ Supra-benthic

§ Pelagic

Schooling characteristics: Often forming large groups swimming near the surface .

Solitary / Small groups / Large schools

Colors & patterns: Focus on unique characteristics which distinguish the species from others, specify differences between:

§ Females

§ Males

§ Juveniles

§ Special patterns (for example, a breeding pattern)

Behavior:

1. Whether the species is:

Transient - not related to specific sites

2. Activity:

§ Diurnal

§ Nocturnal

§ Both

§ Crepuscular

3. Approach:

§ Shy

§ Indifferent

§ Easily approached

§ Bald

§ Followers

4. Unique behavior:

Ovoviviparous, gestation period up to one year with 2-6 embryos produced.

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

5. Feeding characteristic - feeds on bottom-living mollusks, crustaceans and fishes, and quite destructive of commercial oyster and clam beds.

Native/Exotic: Native

EM notes: description of special east Mediterranean characteristics.