Thornback Collection
The thornback, also known as the Raia clavata or Thornback Ray, is a fascinating creature that belongs to the skate and stingray family
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The thornback, also known as the Raia clavata or Thornback Ray, is a fascinating creature that belongs to the skate and stingray family. With its unique appearance and intriguing characteristics, this species has captured the attention of marine enthusiasts worldwide. Resembling a combination of a trunkfish and longhorn cowfish, the thornback ray stands out with its spiky exterior. Its body is covered in small thorns or spikes that serve as protection against potential predators. This feature sets it apart from other members of its family such as the common stingray, clubnose guitarfish, torpedo ray, and eagle ray. Unfortunately, due to various factors including habitat loss and overfishing, the thornback ray is now listed as near threatened. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure their survival in our oceans alongside other vulnerable species like cownose rays and giant devil rays. In 1802-1808 Edward Donovan documented these captivating creatures in his Natural History of British Fishes. His handcoloured copperplate engravings beautifully depict their intricate details for future generations to appreciate. Skates and rays play an essential role in maintaining balance within marine ecosystems. They help control populations of smaller fish by preying on them while serving as prey themselves for larger predators like pufferfishes or globe sunfishes. As we admire these incredible creatures through illustrations from The Pictorial Museum of Animated Nature (engraving), let us remember the importance of protecting their habitats and ensuring their continued existence for generations to come.