Is This a Shark… or Something Else? It’s a shovelnose guitar shark

Despite the name, they’re not actually sharks. Instead, they belong to a group of rays, often referred to as guitarfish, with a body shape that sits somewhere between the two. This unique blend of features makes them one of the ocean’s most intriguing and easily misunderstood species.

A Perfect Ocean Hybrid
Shovelnose guitar sharks combine the flattened body of a ray with characteristics more commonly associated with sharks. They have a long, tapered snout and a more defined dorsal fin, and unlike most rays, they swim using their tail for propulsion. The result is a graceful, gliding movement that feels like a fusion of both worlds.
Typically found in shallow, sandy habitats across tropical and subtropical regions, they are masters of camouflage. Divers and snorkellers will often find them partially buried in the seabed, lying in wait to ambush prey such as crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish.

Increasing Sightings in Lhaviyani Atoll
We’ve been spotting them more regularly across our Lhaviyani Atoll locations recently, both on dives and snorkelling trips. These encounters are always a highlight, offering a rare glimpse at a species that many divers may never have seen before. Footage of these recent sightings comes from Instructor and Komandoo Assistant Dive Centre Manager Adi, as well as a guest on a manta search snorkel trip—capturing the excitement of these unexpected moments in the water.

Why They Matter
Despite their calm and non-aggressive nature, shovelnose guitar sharks face increasing threats from overfishing and habitat loss. Often caught as bycatch or targeted for their fins and meat, some species are now considered vulnerable.

At Prodivers, we encourage responsible marine interactions—maintaining distance and avoiding disturbance helps protect these incredible animals. Their growing presence in Lhaviyani Atoll is a reminder of the rich biodiversity we are fortunate to experience—and the importance of preserving it for generations to come.