California Academy of Sciences, California Coast Gallery

The thornback guitarfish, Platyrhinoidis triseriata, is a species of ray in the subfamily Platyrhininae of the family Rhinobatidae (some authors elevate the platyrhinids to full family status). It is the only member of the genus Platyrhinoidis. It is found in Mexico and the United States. Its natural habitats are shallow seas, subtidal aquatic beds, estuarine waters, and intertidal marshes. Other common names include the banjo shark (not to be confused with the Australian banjo sharks, Trygonorrhina),... less ↑

The leopard shark, Triakis semifasciata, is a species of houndshark, family Triakidae, found along the Pacific coast of North America from the U.S. state of Oregon to Mazatlán in Mexico. Typically measuring 1.2–1.5 m (3.9–4.9 ft) long, this slender-bodied shark is immediately identifiable by the striking pattern of black saddle-like markings and large spots over its back, from which it derives its common name. Large schools of leopard sharks are a common sight in bays and estuaries, swimming... less ↑

The big skate (Raja binoculata) is the largest species of skate, family Rajidae, in the waters off North America. They are found along the Pacific coast from Alaska to Baja California, typically from the intertidal zone to a depth of 120 m (390 ft), and feed on benthic invertebrates and small fishes. They are unusual among skates in that their egg cases may contain up to seven eggs each. This species is one of the most commercially important... less ↑

The horn shark (Heterodontus francisci) is a species of bullhead shark, family Heterodontidae. It is endemic to the coastal waters off the western coast of North America, from California to the Gulf of California. Young sharks are segregated spatially from the adults, with the former preferring deeper sandy flats and the latter preferring shallower rocky reefs or algal beds. A small species typically measuring 1 m (3.3 ft) in length, the horn shark can be recognized by a... less ↑