Shovelnose Shark

Also known as Shovelnose Guitarfish, Eastern Shovelnose Ray

The Shovelnose Shark is technically a guitarfish (ray-like elasmobranch) featuring a distinctive flattened head resembling a shovel, transitioning to a shark-like tail. This unique and fascinating species is a bottom-dwelling predator with interesting behavior. While visually striking and relatively hardy, this species requires substantial space and specialized care. The common name is misleading as it’s more closely related to rays than true sharks.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Rhinobatos productus
• Common Names: Shovelnose Shark, Shovelnose Guitarfish, Eastern Fiddler Ray
• Adult Size: Up to 48–60 inches
• Lifespan: 10-15 years with proper care
• Temperament: Docile; peaceful bottom-dweller
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe; predatory
• Minimum Tank Size: 600 gal – 1000 gal  gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Advanced; requires large system

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Requires a very large tank with extensive open sand bed (essential for burying behavior). Provide smooth rockwork for shelter but prioritize open sand areas. Strong water circulation. No sharp decorations. Smooth tank surfaces essential to prevent abrasions on flattened bodies.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• Salinity: 1.023-1.026
• pH: 8.0-8.4
• Excellent water quality essential

Equipment Recommendations:

• High-capacity filtration system
• Large protein skimmer
• Strong water circulation (6,000+ GPH)
• Deep sand bed (3-4 inches minimum)
• UV sterilization recommended

These maintain optimal conditions for this large bottom-dweller.

Diet & Feeding

Shovelnose Sharks are carnivorous bottom-feeding predators.

Recommended foods include:

• Primary: Fresh or frozen whole fish (silversides, smelt, lance fish)
• Variety: Fresh shrimp (whole), squid, scallops, clams, mussels, small crabs
• Live Foods: Ghost shrimp, small crabs (occasional enrichment)
• Supplements: Vitamin-enriched foods weekly

Feeding Frequency: 3-4 times weekly; substantial meals

Special Note: Bottom feeder that uses electroreception to locate buried prey. May need target feeding if housed with competitive feeders. Feed on a sand bed.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Tankmates: Compatible with large, non-aggressive fish
• Peaceful: Very docile; rarely aggressive
• Multiple Specimens: Can potentially coexist in very large systems
• Predatory: Will consume small fish and crustaceans

Notes & Considerations

• Unique appearance: flattened ray-like front, shark-like tail.
• Distinctive elongated, shovel-shaped snout.
• Actually a guitarfish (ray relative), not a true shark.
• Very docile and harmless to humans.
• Bottom-dwelling; spends most time on substrate.
• It often buries itself partially in sand (natural behavior).
• It requires a deep sand bed to exhibit natural behavior.
• Uses electrosensitive ampullae of Lorenzini to detect buried prey.
• Swims by an undulating body ray-like, not typical shark swimming.
• Relatively slow-moving and sedentary.
• Will eat any fish small enough to swallow.
• Consumes all bottom-dwelling invertebrates.
• Very sensitive to copper medications; never use copper.
• Flattened body easily damaged; smooth surfaces essential.
• No scales; skin abrasions heal slowly.
• Produces substantial waste; excellent filtration required.
• Can become quite large; grows steadily with proper feeding.
• Requires a very large tank as it matures.
• May jump or thrash during acclimation; secure lid recommended.
• Viviparous (live-bearing); gives birth to live young.
• Males have prominent claspers; easy to sex.
• Native to Indo-West Pacific coastal regions.
• Hardy once established a proper system.
• Long-lived; 10-15+ year commitment.
• Legal restrictions possible; verify local regulations.
• Requires advanced elasmobranch husbandry knowledge.
• Not suitable for standard home aquariums due to size.
• Better suited for very large private or public installations.

Why Choose a Quarantined Shovelnose Shark?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, properly acclimated guitarfish. All specimens are carefully observed, treated appropriately (never with copper), and trained to accept varied prepared foods before sale. Given the sensitive nature and size of this species, professional quarantine provides critical stress reduction and the best foundation for long-term success. Note: Verify this species is legal in your jurisdiction before purchase.