The Halavi Guitarfish is a species of ray found in the Indo-West Pacific that feeds on small mollusks and bony fish.
Key threats
Pollution, fishing and habitat destruction.
Where they're found today
Indo-West Pacific, particularly around the Gulf of Oman.
Abu Dhabi’s efforts
The fishing of this species is banned throughout the year in the UAE and the species is included in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which ensures that international trade does not threaten their survival.
Fun facts
1. The name of the species is derived from the Arabic word ‘halawi,’ which means sweet.
2. The species can produce up to 10 pups per litter.
