Eastern Fiddler Ray
Trygonorrhina fasciata
Commonly known as “banjo rays” for their distinctive shape, eastern fiddler rays are close relatives of guitarfish. They are native to the coastal waters of Australia but you can visit them in the Aquarium’s Trust Family Foundation Shark and Ray Touch Tank.
Animal Facts
Size
Up to 4 feet long
Diet
crustaceans (crab and shrimp) along with worms, mollusks, and fishes
Lifespan
Approximately 10–15 years
Range
Coastal habitats of eastern Australia, including seagrass meadows, shallow sandy areas, and reefs
Conservation Status
Least concern
Threats to Survival
- Bycatch
- Climate change
- Habitat loss
Meet Viola and Tasman
Viola and Tasman, the fiddler rays in our touch tank, have names that reflect the species' musical monikers and geographic roots. Viola is named for the string instrument, a nod to her fiddler ray common name. Tasman is named after the Tasman Sea, situated on the southeastern coast of Australia, where the species is found. The two can be identified by their unique markings.
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Eastern fiddler ray Photo: Vanessa Kahn -
Eastern fiddler ray Photo: Vanessa Kahn -
Eastern fiddler ray Photo: Vanessa Kahn
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