Wedgefish
Rays

WedgefishRhinidae

Family2 species

Wedgefishes (Rhinidae) are large, shark-like rays. They possess a distinctive flattened head and pectoral disc, which merges smoothly into a robust, shark-like body. This body is equipped with two prominent dorsal fins and a strong, crescent-shaped caudal fin. Body coloration ranges from grey to olive-brown, often marked with pale spots or darker bars, varying between species. Members of this group can grow to lengths exceeding 3 metres (10 feet).

These rays inhabit sandy or muddy substrates adjacent to reef structures and channels, typically found from shallow depths down to 100 metres (330 feet). Wedgefishes primarily feed on benthic invertebrates such as crabs, shrimp, and bivalves, supplemented by small bottom-dwelling fish. Unlike most rays, they propel themselves through the water by undulating their entire body and tail, rather than flapping their pectoral fins. They are often observed resting motionless on the seabed, sometimes partially buried in sand, and generally exhibit shy behaviour.

How to recognise wedgefish
FlattenedPressed flat top-to-bottom, lies on the bottom - rays, flounders, crocodilefishes.
  • flattened head and broad pectoral disc
  • robust, shark-like body posterior to disc
  • two large, distinct dorsal fins
  • strong, crescent-shaped tail fin
  • grey to olive-brown body, often with pale spots or bars

2 species in Wedgefish

Other groups in Rays

Nearby in the catalogue.

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Last Update: August 3, 2026