1. Fish: Small fish such as gobies, blennies, and damselfish are commonly found in the diet of shovelnose rays. They also feed on small flatfish, such as sanddabs and flounders.
2. Crustaceans: Shovelnose rays consume various crustaceans, including shrimp, crabs, and amphipods. They use their specialized shovel-shaped snouts to dig through the sand or mud to locate these prey items.
3. Mollusks: Shovelnose rays also feed on mollusks, such as clams, mussels, and octopuses. They break open the shells of mollusks using their powerful jaws.
4. Worms: Polychaete worms are another common food source for shovelnose rays. They sift through the sediment to locate these worms.
Shovelnose rays typically use their wide, flat bodies to cover their prey on the seafloor, effectively camouflaging themselves. They then use their powerful jaws to grasp and consume their prey. These rays have specialized teeth that help them crush and grind their food.